2025 Johnny Awards salute influencers driving social advocacy

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Iloilo’s power couple, Drs. Rollin and Ma. Daisy Tabuena, were honored with the distinguished Humanitarian Award at the 2025 Johnny Awards.

Now on its third successful year, the Johnny Awards is the much-awaited society affair in the country, highlighted by a formal awarding ceremony that recognizes the outstanding contributions of men and women nationwide who have made a significant impact on the lives of Filipinos through their knowledge, resources, compassion, and influence.

The event also celebrated the living legacy of the King of Society, Johnny Litton, on his 90th birthday.

The glitzy evening gathered the cream of society at the Grand Hyatt Ballroom, which dazzled with an Oriental-themed spectacle, “The Last Emperor—An Opulent Banquet.”

Guests were welcomed by festive Taiko drums and fan dancers, followed by a mystique-filled Emperor Oriental Royale–themed fashion show, brilliantly directed by the famed Raymond Villanueva and hosted by celebrity Giselle Sanchez.

Among the luminaries recognized during the awards night were Justice Conchita Carpio-Morales, Marichelle “Mache” Torres, Crystal Jacinto, Atty. Dominador Buhain, Jacques Christophe Branellec, Nene Leonor, Prescy Yulo, Atty. Hazel Riguera, Vivian Vicente Caramba, Bernardino Caramba, and Cecilio Paul San Pedro.

Humanitarian awards were also presented to Ma. Cecilia Bravo, Lynn Bautista, Connie Guanzon-Garcia, Martin Nievera, and Nene Leonor, along with Iloilo’s own achievers, esteemed pulmonologist Dr. Rollin Tabuena and his wife, accomplished neurologist Dr. Ma. Daisy Tabuena.

The Tabuenas are known for their unique approach to healthcare by blending their passion for medicine with the arts.

Dr. Rollin was cited for his trailblazing work as Iloilo’s first bronchoscopist trained in transbronchial needle aspiration biopsy, transforming pulmonary medicine and tuberculosis innovation in the city.

His contribution, the Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification Test Kit, or TB Lamp, has been groundbreaking in TB diagnostics, producing rapid and accurate results for underserved communities.

Meanwhile, Dr. Ma. Daisy was honored for her pioneering work in advancing neurological care in the country.

Her expertise in electromyography, nerve conduction studies, and dystonia—first in Western Visayas—has helped address complex neurological disorders such as X-linked dystonia-parkinsonism, a rare genetic condition endemic to Panay Island.

She has also played a critical role in managing dementia, epilepsy, stroke, sleep disorders, and neuromuscular conditions.

Congratulations to all honorees!