From left: Arci Muñoz and Kara David. ARCHIVE

Acclaimed Filipina journalist Kara David and actress Arci Muñoz will be among dozens of awardees at the Global Filipino Icon Awards 2025 in Dubai. The yearly awards, hosted by The Global Filipino Magazine, will take place on Saturday (April 5) at Dusit Thani Dubai. The fifth edition of the awards marks a significant milestone under the new leadership of businesswoman Maryam Delim Aljawi, who now serves as the magazine’s publisher and owner. “We are entering a new era of inspiration and impact. While the leadership may be new, our mission stays strong—to continuously recognize Filipino excellence and uplift the global Filipino community,” said Aljawi, who has been an influential figure in Dubai’s business scene for over three decades. The awards will honor 48 individuals under the Star Icon Awards category. Among the honorees: • Kara David – Investigative Journalism and Media Excellence • Arci Muñoz – Global Influencer in Lifestyle and Entertainment • Sheryl Cruz – Lifetime Excellence in Acting and Musical Performance • Troy Laureta – Lifetime Achievement in Global Music Excellence • Chef JP Anglo – Ambassador of Filipino Culinary Excellence • Thirdy Ravena – Champion of Filipino Athletic Excellence • Harvey Cenit – Visionary in Avant-Garde Fashion Excellence • Shereen Ahmed – Icon of Empowerment for Single Mothers and Mental Health Awareness The awards also include the Special Icon Awards category, recognizing 46 individuals and 40 businesses and organizations for their contributions to innovation, community service, and advocacy. A major highlight will be the announcement of the Emerging Global Filipino Icon 2025, chosen from ten exceptional finalists who exemplify leadership and global impact. The event is expected to gather over 300 guests, including celebrities, community leaders, dignitaries, and diplomats, including Philippine Consul General Marford Angeles and Sri Lankan Ambassador Udaya Indrarathna. ICA/Expat Media
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