GIGIL partners Badong Abesamis, Herbert Hernandez, and Jake Yrastorza have been recognized at The Business Manual CEO Awards 2026 in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, for their bold, unconventional, and uniquely Filipino approach to creativity. The three were among 10 visionary leaders celebrated at the event, which carried the theme “Recognizing Vision. Celebrating Leadership. Shaping What’s Next,” honoring trailblazers and change-makers across various industries.
The award underscores the creative philosophy that has guided GIGIL since it was founded in 2017 by Abesamis and Hernandez — both with years of experience in international advertising agencies — who were later joined by Yrastorza. The agency believes bold, fresh ideas deliver real business results, a principle that has earned them a strong roster of clients and international recognition alongside their dedicated teams.
GIGIL creates unexpected, attention-grabbing work that remains deeply rooted in Filipino culture. Their campaigns for brands like RC Cola, Grab, and Netflix have not only gone viral but also helped drive actual sales and measurable growth for clients. The agency also holds the record for the most APAC Effie Awards earned by any agency in the Philippines — a prestigious honor that recognizes effective marketing campaigns across Asia-Pacific.
