Thank You for Making THRIVE Gala & Awards a Huge Success!
On September 27, 2025, PhilDev hosted its THRIVE Gala & Awards at the Signia by Hilton in San Jose. It was an unforgettable evening in celebration of our 15th year anniversary, paying tribute to PhilDev’s pioneers, honoring individuals dedicated to making a difference in the world, reinforcing the collective impact of an influential Fil-Am community, and fostering opportunities for greater collaboration and meaningful partnerships.
We are deeply thankful to all our partners, sponsors, volunteers and all the guests who showed up and delivered for PhilDev! Your presence and support helped make our signature event a huge success!
Photo Gallery
Manny Maceda, Dado Banatao Legacy Award presented by Maria Banatao and Cris Liban
Dado Banatao Legacy Awardee, Manny Maceda, Chair of Bain & Company imparted in his keynote, “PhilDev’s mission—to connect Filipino talent to global opportunities—could not be more important. It’s about building bridges: across regions, across sectors, and across generations. Tonight, I am proud and grateful to be part of this community. Together, let us keep lifting others as we rise.”
We congratulate our other incredible awardees for their outstanding contributions and leadership. PhilDev will be your ally as you continue to create a meaningful impact in society:
Gigi Carunungan, Award for Education
Lieza Danan, Award for Innovation
Aldo Carrascoso, Award for Entrepreneurship
Ruby Ibarra, Award for SPARK
Guests were treated to a stunning show directed by award-winning filmmaker & events production expert, John-d Lazatin, and hosted by NBC Bay Area reporter, Ginger Conejero.
Our SPARK awardee, Ruby Ibarra, was also the evening’s featured performer, who together with her band opened the evening’s festivities with a rousing rap number, Bakunawa, her winning piece at this year’s NPR Tiny Desk Awards. David Unlayao, aka the Filipino Cowboy, also shared his talent on stage and kept the energy up, going into the Live Auction & Fund-a-Need to benefit PhilDev’s scholars in the Philippines and in the US.
Together, we met our fundraising goals! The funds raised will significantly enhance PhilDev’s programs and initiatives in education, innovation & entrepreneurship, enabling more Filipinos to advance and thrive globally.
We would like to acknowledge the donors of the awesome Live Auction offerings: Paolo & Wendy Malabuyo, Mango Tours, Chef Lord Maynard Llera, Dado & Maria Banatao, Cris & Benel Liban, Chad Arcinue, Kenneth Cobonpue, Rely & Marilyn Pio Roda, Josh Pultz / Amplified Entertainment, Gloria Gil.
Silent Auction, Paddle Sweep prize, Heads & Tails prize, Giveaway donors: Jeffrey Stone / The Resort Group, Laguna Cliffs Resort & Spa Marriott, Palisades Tahoe, Rely & Marilyn Pio Roda, Gerald Gular, Bryce Goodwin & Victor Lirio, Danilo & Evelyn Lopez, Dado & Maria Banatao, Mike Ang / Team Ensueño, Avenida, Gerry’s Grill, Goldilocks, Josie Natori, Amyel Oliveros, Kiton SF, Mahal Scents, Rocca Family Vineyards.
Special thanks to our auctioneer and bid spotters Richard Pio Roda, Rely Pio Roda & Ryan Pio Roda for the expert handling of our fundraising activity.
The night wouldn’t be complete without the superb Filipino Heritage cocktail bites and 3-course dinner prepared by Executive Chef, Joe Derlawhich received rave reviews from many of our guests. The Cabernet Sauvignon & Viognier, donated by Rocca Family Vineyards was just as amazing, keeping everyone’s spirits up the entire time!
Silver Sponsor – Josie Chernoff / Cumberland Holdings, UBS, TAAF, Karen Lopez, Linda Lester
Bronze Sponsor – Sophie Ladenla, Mango Tours
Ally Sponsor – Victor Lirio & Bryce Goodwin, HC Global Solutions, Lisa Guerra, Lilia Perena, Cecilia Marquez, Lisa Vong, Dan Galeon, Don Lopez, Jun & Josette Estrellado, Loida Lewis
Lastly, a special thank you to all of our PhilDeVolunteers for sharing your time, talent and expertise: John-d, Ginger, Eric, Eugene, Nikki, Jenny, Kiara, Sofia, Joshua, Audrey, Keesa, Jeremiah, Miguel, Maria, Erin, Beth, Gabe, Tony, Mafe, Mirabelle & Nel. This milestone event wouldn’t have been possible without your hard work, passion and dedication!
Thank you once again for your continued support of PhilDev’s mission. Together, we are creating a brighter future for the next generation and shaping a world where Filipino innovation and leadership shine!
Video & Photo Credits: Jeremiah Ysip & Miguel Carrion
