via Graphic Plus | Manila, Philippines — The 44th Agora Awards gathered the country’s most respected marketing leaders, entrepreneurs, institutions, and advocates, with winners sharing a common message: the future of Philippine marketing will be built on purpose, innovation, and people-centered leadership.
For Christopher Quimbo of Novellino Wines, Outstanding Achievement in Entrepreneurship (Large Scale), the recognition reinforces a long-term mission of making wine more accessible to Filipinos while bringing the Philippine wine experience to global markets. Quimbo emphasized that while consumer behavior evolves, wine remains timeless — and the challenge is ensuring relevance across generations, including Gen Z and future consumers.
Recognized for Outstanding Achievement in Marketing Management of the Year, Jill Christine Santiago Peña underscored the importance of balancing data with human connection. She described marketing as both an art and a science, explaining that while numbers drive strategy, meaningful marketing ultimately serves people and improves lives.
For UNAHCO, Marketing Company of the Year, success was attributed to a culture rooted in empowerment, accountability, and innovation. By encouraging teams to develop strategies while challenging them to exceed targets, the organization continues to strengthen its leadership in animal nutrition and healthcare.
In the academic sector, De La Salle University (DLSU) emphasized continuous curriculum evolution aligned with industry demands, particularly in artificial intelligence and digital transformation. The Agora recognition serves as a benchmark of excellence while reinforcing the university’s mission of academic rigor combined with social responsibility.
Entrepreneurship winners also reflected strong purpose-driven growth. Kim Lato of Kimstore highlighted authenticity and customer connection as the timeless truth behind the brand’s success, while expansion plans focus on strengthening partnerships to evolve into a broader tech ecosystem.
Jervil Omaga of Vintazk Outsourcing shared that the company began with a mission to create competitive job opportunities in the countryside. From simple digital visibility strategies to advanced marketing systems, the company remains anchored in building businesses that uplift families and communities.
In social enterprise and advocacy, Bambike, Villa Socorro, and Nature Awareness highlighted marketing’s role in elevating local industries, empowering communities, and changing public behavior toward sustainability and social responsibility.
Meanwhile, Dr. Raymond Vergara, CPM, emphasized that leadership growth begins with accepting challenges. Every challenge, he noted, builds capability and prepares leaders for an unpredictable future.
Together, the 44th Agora Awards winners demonstrate that Philippine marketing excellence is not only about business success — it is about creating impact, empowering people, and shaping industries for generations to come.
