Aquino Plotado Shines at Global Filipino Icon Awards 2025
MANILA, Philippines — The vibrant city of Dubai recently witnessed a remarkable celebration of Filipino talent and entrepreneurship at the Global Filipino Icon Awards 2025. Among the esteemed awardees was Aquino Plotado, a Dubai-based film producer and entrepreneur, who earned the distinguished Star Icon Award for Outstanding Filipino Entrepreneur in Property and Entertainment. This accolade recognizes his profound influence on both the real estate and creative sectors, establishing him as a multifaceted leader.
Real Estate Achievements
Aquino Plotado’s journey in the real estate industry has been marked by exemplary performance and significant achievements. Recently, he was hailed as one of the Top Sales Agents at FAM Properties, the largest real estate firm in the United Arab Emirates, during the fourth quarter of 2023. His prowess didn’t stop there; after joining Metropolitan Premium Properties, Plotado made headlines by closing a major deal on his very first day. In an impressive feat, he surpassed his annual sales target within just one month, finalizing a transaction worth a staggering AED 25 million.
Contributions to the Creative Arts
Beyond the realm of real estate, Plotado is also making waves in the creative industry. With a passion for storytelling, he produced the short film "As The Call, So The Echo," which starred Enzo Pineda and was directed by Rusty Palacio Guarin. The film shone brightly at the 11th Emirates Short Film Festival 2025, earning accolades and recognition. Among its numerous accolades, it was celebrated with awards for Best Actor (Enzo Pineda) and Best Director (Rusty Palacio Guarin), in addition to nominations for Best Film and Best Child Actor (Prince España).
Reflecting on the success of the film, Plotado expressed his gratitude: “Getting two major awards and two nominations for ‘As The Call So The Echo’ was incredibly encouraging. It made me feel proud, but more importantly, it pushed me to keep going, to tell stories that matter and create films that can stand out internationally."
A Commitment to Philanthropy
Plotado’s impact extends beyond his professional achievements. He is deeply dedicated to philanthropy through his charity organization, the Aquino Plotado Philanthropy Foundation. Demonstrating his commitment to education, he recently made a significant contribution to Potrero National High School in Malabon City, donating P1 million to support the school’s development programs. Furthermore, his donation included nine printers for various academic departments and a sound system for school events and Sunday Masses.
In recognition of his philanthropic efforts, Plotado was invited as a guest speaker at the school’s 2025 High School Recognition Day on April 8, 2025. He delivered an inspirational video message, encouraging students to aspire for greatness and make a positive impact in their communities.
Notable Figures Celebrated
The event not only celebrated Plotado but also honored many other distinguished Filipinos, including notable personalities such as Arci Muñoz, Sheryl Cruz, Thirdy Ravena, Shereen Ahmed, Troy Laureta, Chef JP Anglo, Harvey Cenit, Ron Awa, and esteemed fashion designer Michael Cinco. Each awardee exemplifies the incredible talent and entrepreneurial spirit of Filipinos across the globe.
Inspiring Future Generations
Aquino Plotado’s journey is one of inspiration, showcasing the potential for success in diverse sectors. His achievements in real estate and film, coupled with his unwavering commitment to philanthropy, serve as a guiding light for future generations of Filipinos. By intertwining business acumen with creative expression and a heart for service, Plotado continues to demonstrate that success can take many forms, encouraging others to pursue their dreams while giving back to the community.
In a world that often highlights individualism, Plotado stands out as a figure who blends professional excellence with a profound sense of purpose, inspiring others to follow in his footsteps.
