Outstanding achievers from the fields of entertainment, public service, business, media, education, tourism and philanthropy were recognized at the 10th World Class Excellence Japan Awards (WCEJA) on June 18 at Heritage Hotel Manila.
Now celebrating its 10th anniversary, the awards program was founded by international singer, philanthropist and Voice of an Angel Foundation (VOAA) founder Emma Cordero to recognize individuals and organizations whose accomplishments have contributed to society and inspired excellence in their respective fields.
Leading this year’s honorees are the late National Artist Nora Aunor, who will receive the posthumous World-Class Icon of Philippine Cinema and Performing Arts Award 2026, and the late Pilita Corrales, who will be honored with the posthumous World-Class Queen of Songs Lifetime Achievement Award 2026. Aunor’s award will be accepted by her son, Ian de Leon.
Among the recipients from government and public service are Ben “Bitag” Tulfo, Champion of Truth and Accountability Award; Public Attorney’s Office Chief Persida Acosta, Excellence in Justice and Public Advocacy Award 2026; Bulacan Gov. Daniel Fernando, People’s Governor Excellence Award; Florentino Macawile, Public Servant and Performer Award 2026; and Sam Verzosa, Excellence in Entrepreneurship and Public Service Award.
Also receiving recognition are lawyer Ferdinand Topacio, World-Class Outstanding Multimedia Lawyer 2026; Dr. Milagros Olivarez Borabien, Distinguished Filipino Physician; Rogelio F. Cruz Jr., Outstanding International Math Teacher 2026; Rhodora Yoshitake, Outstanding International Entrepreneur and Philanthropist 2026; PDG Leonida Bayani Ortiz, World-Class Women Empowerment and Civic Leader Excellence Award 2026; and Mark Paul Sepe, Outstanding Male Environment Advocate and Philanthropist 2026.
The media sector will be represented by awardees Fernando de Guzman, Leadership Award for Media Excellence 2026; Juvy de Guzman, Most Outstanding Broadcaster and Philanthropist 2026; Joey Capisonda, Most Outstanding Political Vlogger 2026; Noel S. Asinas, Outstanding Social Media Influencer in Entertainment and Business 2026; Obette Serrano, Outstanding International Director, Media and Philanthropist 2026; Rafael S. Chico, Most Outstanding Host and Service Excellence Advocate 2026; Rodel Ocampo Fernando, Most Outstanding Writer 2026; Vivian R. Yjares, Most Outstanding Notable Public Servant 2026; and Victoria C. Cancio, Lifetime Achievement Award 2026.
PTV-4 will receive the Outstanding TV Network of the Year 2026 Award, while “Rise and Shine Pilipinas” will be recognized as Outstanding Morning Show of the Year 2026. Zara Lopez will be honored as Popular Female Vlogger of the Year.
Among the entertainment personalities to be recognized are Angel Aquino, Best Supporting Actress in a TV Series; Angel Guardian, Best Actress in a TV Series for “Encantadia”; Ara Mina, Most Outstanding Versatile Actress 2026; Katrina Halili, Best Actress in a TV Series for “Mommy Dearest”; Maui Taylor, Outstanding and Empowered Actress of the Year; Mon Confiado, Best Supporting Actor in a TV Series for “Totoy Bato”; Rio Locsin, Best Supporting Actress in a TV Series for “The Master Cutter”; and Sid Lucero, Best Supporting Actor in a TV Series for “My Bespren Emman.”
Also receiving honors are filmmakers Mike Miguel Magat, Best International Director–Japan 2026 for “Seven Days,” and Romm Burlat, Asia’s Best Director 2026.
Recognized in music and the performing arts are Darius Razon, Asia’s King of Ballads 2026; Gloria Kelley, Outstanding Timeless Songstress of the Year; Benz Llavore, Most Outstanding Composer of the Year 2026; Joe Trapani, International Choreographer of the Year; Aileen Grace Papin, Outstanding Female Balladeer of the Year; Jam Leviste, OPM Rising Star of the Year; Jocelyn “Meg” Ganzon, Outstanding Jazz Singer and Philanthropist 2026; Garry Cruz, Outstanding Recording Artist of the Year; Liam Pangilinan, Most Outstanding Recording Artist of the Year; Shane Anas, The Rising Voice Award for Excellence 2026; Borj Papin, Most Promising Recording Artist; Kirk Galendez, Most Promising Recording Artist of the Year; and Zac P. Carrion, Promising Pop Artist and Performer 2026.
The awards program will likewise honor beauty queens and cultural ambassadors, including Imelda Papin, Ms. Kawanggawa–Charity Queen 2026; Catherine Yogi, World-Class Queen Universe 2026; Alicia Davac Paelmo, Outstanding Beauty Queen and Philanthropist of the Year; Maffi Papin Carrion, World-Class Tourism Queen; Charles Belinario, Outstanding Prince of VOAA 2026; Hanayagi Hakukoma, Outstanding Beauty Queen and Japanese Cultural Dance Instructor; Mary Flor Macawile, Outstanding Beauty Queen 2026; and Yolanda Suematsu, Outstanding Beauty Queen 2026.
According to Cordero, the anniversary celebration is dedicated to recognizing individuals whose achievements, leadership and service continue to inspire positive change.
“As we celebrate our 10th year, we honor not only success but also the dedication, sacrifice and passion behind every achievement. The World Class Excellence Japan Awards remains committed to recognizing people who make a difference and inspire future generations,” she said.
This year’s beneficiary is the Voice of an Angel Foundation, which provides educational assistance and scholarship opportunities to deserving students.
With special performances and guest appearances scheduled throughout the evening, the 10th World Class Excellence Japan Awards aims to celebrate excellence while continuing its mission of promoting service, leadership and nation-building.