The prestigious Search for Outstanding Ilonggo Entrepreneur Awards 2024 held its grand awarding ceremony at the Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art, honoring the brilliance and transformative impact of Ilonggo entrepreneurs. Now in its third year, this annual event celebrates visionary leadership, creativity, and exceptional contributions to Iloilo’s vibrant business landscape.
The ceremony was attended by distinguished members of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Iloilo, prominent business leaders, and the families of this year’s nominees, showcasing the strong collaborative spirit of the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
2024 IEA Awardees
●Ilonggo Entrepreneur of the Year: Emilio S Diez of JD Bakeshop
●Young Ilonggo Entrepreneur of the Year: Alice Grace Ledesma-Bautista of One BPO.
●Aspiring Ilonggo Entrepreneur of the Year: Genecio Woo of The B Academy Ph., Inc.
In addition, special citations were given to recognize unique contributions across various sectors:
●Social Entrepreneur Award: Paul Kaldi of Paul Kaldi Coffee
●Sustainable Entrepreneur Award: Bea Genson of Clothes Station
●Innovative Entrepreneur Award: Alice Grace Ledesma-Bautista of One BPO.
●Creative Entrepreneur Award: Cris Vinson of Primof
●Tech-Based Entrepreneur Award: Genecio Woo of the B Academy Ph., Inc
●Non-Tech-Based Entrepreneur Award: Arnel John Vallejo of Banwa Pens
Since its inception in 2022, the Ilonggo Entrepreneur Awards have recognized individuals who drive economic growth and innovation. In its first year, Honorato Espinosa of Tatoy’s Manokan and Seafood Restaurant was named Ilonggo Entrepreneur of the Year for his outstanding role in promoting Ilonggo culinary heritage. The following year, Gerry Guadarrama of Original Biscocho Haus earned the title, celebrating his business’s pivotal role in preserving Ilonggo pasalubong culture.
The awards were presented by PCCI Iloilo’s esteemed board, led by Chairman Felix H. Tiu, President Engr. Fulbert C. Woo, and Ilonggo Entrepreneur Awards 2024 Chairman Jose Francisco V. Gerona.
Each winner received the iconic Tariktik trophy, a masterpiece by renowned Ilonggo artist Marrz Capanang. The trophy, inspired by the endangered Visayan hornbill, symbolizes resilience, courage, and integrity—qualities epitomized by the awardees in their remarkable journeys of perseverance and purpose-driven leadership.
The Ilonggo Entrepreneur Awards continue to inspire a culture of innovation and excellence among Iloilo’s business leaders. This year’s honorees embody the vision and values propelling the region’s economic success and serve as role models for future generations of entrepreneurs.
