22/11/2024
PRESS RELEASE
CAPTAIN CARLITO BARONDA DRILON: THE VISIONARY BEHIND THE GOLDEN PHOENIX INTERNATIONAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS
Manila, Philippines – November 20, 2024 – Capt. Carlito Baronda Drilon, an international master mariner, successful businessman, philanthropist, and visionary leader from Dumangas, Iloilo, is a man whose life story is an inspiring testament to resilience, passion, and a deep commitment to empowering others. With a distinguished career spanning over 25 years at sea, Drilon's achievements in both the maritime industry and various philanthropic endeavors are nothing short of remarkable.
A Life Built on Excellence and Dedication
Drilon’s journey to success began in the humble town of Dumangas, Iloilo, where he was raised with strong values of hard work, discipline, and compassion. As a young man, he excelled academically, graduating as class valedictorian and finishing college with honors. This foundation of excellence laid the groundwork for what would become an illustrious career as a seafarer.
Over his 25 years as a seafarer, Capt. Carlito Drilon earned the distinction of becoming an International Master Mariner—a prestigious title that reflects his unparalleled expertise and leadership in the maritime industry. His achievements as a multi-awarded seafarer earned him respect and recognition both locally and internationally. Drilon's commitment to his profession, paired with his exceptional leadership and management skills, has made him a role model in the maritime community.
A Visionary Entrepreneur and Philanthropist
Beyond the seas, Drilon is also a successful businessman and philanthropist. As the founder of Top Joby International Manpower Agency, he has demonstrated his keen business acumen, leading the company to success while creating opportunities for others. His dedication to his work and his employees is a testament to his values of integrity, hard work, and community service.
Drilon’s passion for education and empowering others led him to become the first alumni president of the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) Dumangas Campus, where he played an instrumental role in advancing the institution’s programs and supporting its students. He has also made significant contributions to local youth by sending deserving scholars to school, ensuring that future generations have the tools they need to succeed.
Commitment to Education and Recognition of Excellence
In December 2023, Drilon's tireless efforts were formally recognized when he was conferred a Doctoral Degree in Business Administration at the 6th Asian University International (AUI) Doctoral Conferment Ceremony, held at the Manila Heritage Hotel. The ceremony, themed Human Excellence: Honoring the Dynamic Professionals, Leaders, and Individuals for Outstanding Achievements, celebrated Drilon as a true leader in his field, inspiring others through his work and service.
A Passion for the Arts and Entertainment
In addition to his accomplishments in business and philanthropy, Drilon has ventured into the arts and entertainment industry. In 2024, he founded CK Films Productions, a filmmaking company through which he produced the advocacy film Pitik Bulag, launched on March 1 at Shangri-La Plaza Cinema 1. The film, produced in collaboration with Sining ng Tahanan, is a reflection of Drilon’s passion for using the arts to inspire change and promote social causes.
Drilon’s commitment to the arts is part of his larger vision to create projects that will inspire, empower, and uplift communities—whether through business, film, or philanthropic initiatives. His deep connection to culture, cinema, and social impact continues to fuel his desire to make a difference in the world.
A Visionary for Global Excellence
Drilon's outstanding contributions have earned him numerous accolades. On March 2, 2024, he was honored as “World-Class Philanthropist and Master Mariner of the Year” at the World-Class Excellence Award by the Global Academy for Human Excellence. He is also set to receive the “Excellence in Leadership, Most Empowered Man, and Outstanding Humanitarian Advocate of the Year” awards at the 3rd Dakilang Pilipino Awards on April 6, 2024.
Drilon will also be honored with the “Most Outstanding Humanitarian Leader of the Year” at the Golden Leaf Emeritus Awards 2024 and the “Most Promising Independent Film Producer and Creative Collaborator of the Year” at the Peal of the Orient Awards on April 27, 2024. Additionally, he will receive awards for his exceptional achievements in business and leadership at the Hollywood Asia Diamond Elite Prize and the Pacific Global Human Excellence Awards in 2024.
The Golden Phoenix International Achievement Awards
In 2024, Drilon's vision of celebrating human excellence and empowering others culminated in the creation of the Golden Phoenix International Achievement Awards (GPIAA). The inaugural awards ceremony took place on November 20, 2024, at Shangri-La Plaza Cinema Premiere Lounge, where distinguished guests from various fields gathered to honor exceptional achievers.
The Golden Phoenix International Achievement Awards, under Drilon’s leadership, aims to recognize individuals and organizations that embody resilience, innovation, compassion, and a commitment to making a positive impact on society. A portion of the event's proceeds will support charitable causes, including scholarships for underprivileged youth, underscoring Drilon’s dedication to creating social change and empowering future leaders.
A Legacy of Impact and Inspiration
Capt. Carlito Baronda Drilon’s extraordinary life journey, from his roots in Dumangas to becoming an internationally recognized master mariner and philanthropist, is a powerful reminder that with passion, perseverance, and a heart dedicated to service, anyone can achieve greatness. Through the Golden Phoenix International Achievement Awards, Drilon continues to create a lasting legacy—one that will inspire generations to come to rise above their challenges and make a meaningful difference in the world.
