In a year defined by transformation, the public sector is no longer just a backdrop for progress—it’s the driving force. At the recent PeopleAsia “People of the Year” awards, the spotlight shifted from the usual glitz of entertainment to the grit of governance.
Leading the charge were DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon and DICT Undersecretary David Almirol Jr., two public servants recognized not just for their titles, but for the sweeping reforms they’ve spearheaded within the country’s most critical institutions.
Also honored was Ramon S. Ang, chairman and CEO of San Miguel Corporation, who received the Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to nation building. Eduardo Jose Aliño of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority was cited for generating ₱6 billion in committed investments for the economic zone.
Dizon was cited for strengthening transparency and accountability at the DPWH. His reform agenda has included the launch of a Transparency Portal, asset freezes against implicated personnel, dismissals of erring officials, and structural measures designed to tighten oversight of infrastructure projects.
“The President asked me to do three things. Hold those responsible to account wherever the evidence leads. Get the people’s money back. Reform the DPWH so that this never happens again,” Dizon told PeopleAsia.
Almirol, meanwhile, was recognized for pushing digital transformation in government service delivery. At the DICT, he has championed the integration of public services into unified digital platforms to simplify transactions and improve citizen access.
Under his leadership, the DICT advanced the eGovPH Super App and the digital National ID. Almirol said both initiatives were developed internally by government teams, reducing reliance on external contractors and generating savings for the state.
“We didn’t get the services of a contractor for the eGovPH Super App. Same with the digital National ID– my staff made it. The government saved a lot,” he said. “Now we can transact with the government in a single app. It’s a major shift.”
Veteran broadcast journalist Jessica Soho of GMA Network and music icon Martin Nievera were likewise recognized for their enduring impact in media and entertainment.
Entrepreneur Nikki Tang, Dr. Hayden Kho Jr. of Belo Medical Group, designer Francis Libiran, and Anna Cabrera of the Philippine Animal Welfare Society were also recognized for contributions in business, design, and advocacy.
The inclusion of two active government officials among the honorees highlights how public sector reform is increasingly being recognized alongside achievements in business, media, and the arts.
This year’s roster reflects a growing recognition of government reform efforts as part of the country’s broader leadership narrative.
