Wazzup Pilipinas!
In an era marked by both an explosion of information and the alarming spread of misinformation, one university stood tall to honor the torchbearers of truth and creativity—those who illuminate minds, stir hearts, and shape public discourse with their powerful voices and unwavering passion. The Lyceum of the Philippines University - Cavite took center stage on March 28, 2025, as it hosted the much-anticipated 3rd Laurus Nobilis Media Excellence Awards, a celebration of Filipino media's boldest, brightest, and most brilliant.
Held in the vibrant heart of Cavite, the awards night was a dazzling tribute to media professionals who embody excellence, integrity, and influence. Under the compelling theme “Luminaries in Media: Beacon of Youth Empowerment,” the evening transformed into a symphony of recognition for the visionaries who have not only shaped the current media landscape but have also ignited inspiration for generations to come.
At the forefront of the honorees was Direk Joey Reyes, esteemed Chairman and CEO of the Film Development Council of the Philippines, whose prolific work in Philippine cinema and media storytelling continues to resonate across audiences. Though unable to attend in person, his video message struck a powerful chord:
“Most especially at a time when there is an overflow of information, when there are various vessels and vehicles of distorted truth, people dedicated to the honesty and truthfulness of media is of utmost imperative,” Direk Joey expressed with candor and conviction. “To all the students of media right now, yours is the responsibility to correct the errors that have been created by generations that came before you.”
The gravity of his words was not lost on the audience—aspiring journalists, filmmakers, broadcasters, and digital creatives who hung on to every syllable. It was a call to action for the next wave of storytellers to champion accuracy, transparency, and compassion in their craft.
Accepting the Icon of Media Excellence Award, the evening’s highest distinction, on behalf of Direk Joey was Seymour Sanchez, FDCP Technical Consultant for Academic Linkages. The award symbolized not just a lifetime of dedication, but the transformative power of stories when told with authenticity and heart.
A Celebration of Star Power and Substance
The night glowed with the presence of celebrities and respected media figures who personally received their well-deserved laurels:
Elijah Canlas (“Uninvited”) and Candy Pangilinan (“Road Trip”) captivated hearts as they took home awards for Excellence in Film Acting.
Pia Arcangel and Jeff Canoy, faces of credibility and calm in turbulent times, were honored for TV News Presentation.
DJ ChaCha (True FM) and Johnson Manabat (Radyo 630) claimed the spotlight in Radio News Anchoring, while DJ Robin Sienna (Love Radio) was celebrated in the Radio Disk Jockeying (Female) category.
Kara David (“I-Witness”) and Kim Atienza (“Dapat Alam Mo!”) were acknowledged for their tireless work in Public Affairs Hosting.
Amy Perez (“It's Showtime”) and Paolo Ballesteros (“Drag Race Philippines”) brought home awards in Entertainment Show Hosting, showcasing their magnetic stage presence and inclusive energy.
Musical sensations BINI and TJ Monterde were lauded for Musical Performance, bringing rhythm and emotion to life.
Rising and established stars Maja Salvador and Andres Muhlach impressed with their Brand Endorsement prowess.
Ashley Ortega (“Pulang Araw”) and Rabin Angeles (“Mutya ng Section E”) were awarded for TV Acting, highlighting the next generation of versatile performers.
Online dynamism was also recognized, with Lenie Aycardo and Hajie Alejandro winning for Online Content Creation, proving that digital is the new frontier of influence.
Rounding out the media trailblazers, Papa Jackson (Energy FM) claimed the crown for Radio Disk Jockeying (Male), recognized for his charismatic and commanding voice over the airwaves.
Students Take the Lead
What made the evening even more remarkable was the fact that it was organized by the senior Communication students of LPU Cavite. In a time when many question the next generation's depth and readiness, these young leaders answered with action—demonstrating sharp professionalism, heartfelt dedication, and visionary purpose.
LPU Cavite’s Communication Program Chair Mary Grace Arroyo-Vasquez delivered a powerful tribute to the honorees:
“They are more than just outstanding journalists, performers, and creators—they are role models who illuminate the path for young minds, using their platforms to spark positive change, amplify voices, and champion truth and creativity.”
Her message was a heartfelt recognition of the media’s dual responsibility—to entertain and to enlighten.
A Radiant Future Beckons
The 3rd Laurus Nobilis Media Excellence Awards was not merely an awards ceremony—it was a beacon, reminding us of the role media plays in shaping the soul of a nation. Through stories, music, journalism, and digital content, these honorees are changing lives, framing narratives, and, above all, empowering the youth.
As Ms. Arroyo-Vasquez poignantly concluded:
“As we celebrate excellence in various fields of media, may this event remind us of the profound impact that stories, music, films, and digital content have in shaping perspectives and nurturing a more informed, engaged, and empowered youth.”
Indeed, in this golden hour of Philippine media, Laurus Nobilis has once again proven that honoring the truth is the highest form of excellence.
And with future storytellers in the audience—listening, learning, and ready to rise—the legacy of these luminaries shines brighter than ever.
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
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