For one night and one night only, VIPs from all sectors of society gathered to witness People Asia magazine’s “People of the Year” Awards night.
Held at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza’s Luzon Mindanao Ballroom last Jan. 15, it was truly a star-studded night as politicians, entertainment personalities, fashionistas, businessmen and members of the diplomatic corps showed up in their finest attire.
All the 12 awardees graced the occasion, led by Vice President Noli “Kabayan” de Castro, US Ambassador to Manila Kristie Kenney, Sen. Manny Villar, Makati Mayor Jejomar Binay, Century Properties chairman and Special Envoy to the People’s Republic of China Joey Antonio, GoNegosyo’s Joey Concepcion, dean of FEU’s Institute of Law and chief executive officer of the Kuok Group-Philippines Andy Bautista, Virlanie Foundation Inc. founder Dominique Lemay, Philippine National Red Cross governor Rosa Rosal, fashion designer and social entrepreneur Rajo Laurel, megastar Sharon Cuneta and international singing sensation Charice Pempengco.
The special award for former President Corazon Aquino was received by her son, Sen. Noynoy Aquino, who read a message expressing the Aquino family’s appreciation for the recognition given to the former president’s sacrifices and contribution to the country.
In the same event, a special citation was also given to SM founder and “Father of Philippine Retail” Henry Sy Sr., which coincided with the launching of the “SM Book of Generations” detailing the history of the ShoeMart empire. The taipan’s daughter Tessie Sy-Coson accepted the citation and the book on his behalf.
Music also played a big role in the night’s success with The Primos led by Jon Joven serenading guests, and sensational young chanteuse Charice Pempengco wowing the audience with her powerful voice as she sang a medley of songs from the movie Bodyguard and Beyonce Knowle’s Listen.
The “People of the Year” awards were presented in cooperation with Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila, HSBC, Volvo, Thai Airways, Dockers San Francisco, the Aboitiz Group of Companies, International Container Terminal Services, Inc., Eurocopter Phils., Margarita King, Titania Wines, Havaianas and The Philippine STAR.