NOW IN its 11th year, the LEAD Awards 2025 continues its proud tradition of honoring exceptional Dabawenyos aged 40 and above who have made a significant impact on the city’s progress, pride, and well-being. Founded by the Davao Jaycee Senate (DJS) and the Davao City Senate Foundation, the LEAD Awards remains the only institutional civic recognition in Davao that celebrates leadership, excellence, and enduring contribution across a wide range of fields.
According to Jason C Magnaye, the 2025, DJS president, “This year’s theme, “Honoring Excellence, Inspiring Progress,” underscores the transformative power of individuals whose achievements uplift communities and spark positive change. These honorees exemplify leadership rooted in purpose, a deep commitment to service, and a legacy of impact that resonates far beyond their fields of work.”
“At the heart of the LEAD Awards is the belief that “service to humanity is the best work of life,” reflecting the core values of the Jaycees. More than a recognition, the award is a call to action—to inspire a new generation of citizens to lead with integrity, work for the common good, and shape a better future for Davao,” Magnaye added.
Davaoeños making a difference
Since the inception of the LEAD Awards, this defining phrase has captured the essence of what it means to be a LEAD Honoree. “It is more than a line, it is a commitment to civic purpose and a visible standard for public leadership.
Every recipient of the LEAD Award is recognized as a Davaoeño who is making a difference, someone whose work has left a meaningful mark on the city and its people. Over the years, this phrase has become synonymous with the award itself, a lasting emblem of honor, service, and transformation”, said Manuel “Bobby” M Orig, founder of LEAD Awards and 2003 President of DJS.
A legacy that inspires a virtuous cycle
Ultimately, the LEAD Awards aims to create a virtuous cycle of men and women who, inspired by the achievements of the LEAD Honorees, will dedicate themselves to making Davao City a better place to live and work.
Through this enduring recognition, the Awards foster a culture where leadership, contribution, and personal integrity are both celebrated and emulated.
In honoring these individuals, the LEAD Awards shines a light on what is possible when purpose meets action and reminds us all that the true measure of success lies in the lives we uplift and the legacy we leave behind.
LEAD Award is made possible through the generous support of individuals, organizations, and corporations who share the belief that celebrating excellence is a powerful catalyst for community transformation. Their contributions help sustain this noble initiative, ensuring that the spirit of service and leadership continues to thrive.
Since its inception, the LEAD AWARD has conferred upon 31 distinguished honorees.
