PeopleAsia’s ‘Men Who Matter’ 2026 Awards Night: When the color looks ‘Good’

As a guest and founding editor of PeopleAsia magazine, I had quite the colorful experience with this year’s “Men Who Matter,” which was launched 21 years ago.

The invitation called for “colored blazers and suits”—and PeopleAsia’s guests delivered, arriving in style at Lanson Place Mall of Asia to honor this year’s awardees.

The vibrant suits and blazers on the decidedly masculine black carpet looked good on every guest—as good, we would say, as the men the magazine was honoring that night! “They are not just men who excel at what they do—they are good men. Period. And we always need more of them,” said PeopleAsia editor-in-chief Jose Paolo dela Cruz in his opening speech.

Leading this year’s list of awardees was actor Donny Pangilinan, who returned for his second “Men Who Matter” award after three short years. Joining him were fashion designer Joey Samson, architect Carlo Calma, Hartman Communications’ Harry Hartman, Louie Gutierrez of Urban Farmers PH, content creator Kyle “Kulas” Jennermann, and One Meralco Foundation’s Jeff Tarayao. 

Century Pacific Food’s Greg Banzon, Active Group’s Antonio “Toti” Turalba Jr., Shell Pilipinas’ Serge Bernal Jr., and Toyota Motor Philippines and Lexus Philippines’ Masando Hashimoto were also honored.

Leading dentist Dr. Ralph Figaroa Delas Alas of Urban Smiles and Asian Hospital and Medical Center’s Dr. Beaver Tamesis also made it to the list.

Last but not least, Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya was honored for leading the 70th anniversary of Philippine-Japan relations, which are built on long-standing friendship, mutual trust and respect.

SM Hotels and Conventions Corp., represented by executive vice president Peggy Angeles, also received a special award for its achievements in hospitality and tourism.

The evening’s well-suited guests were treated to a stellar performance by The Velvet Jazz. Host Yanah Laurel Siguion-Reyna emceed the event, while Drew Menor did the event styling, which drew inspiration from the “Men Who Matter” trophy.

This year’s awardees and guests were also treated to a sumptuous spread prepared by Lanson Place Mall of Asia, while exquisite wines and beers from Ralph’s Wines and Spirits overflowed.