Attorney Felipe L. Gozon was recently honored by the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) Asia Pacific as 2024 Communicator of the Year (COTY) in the Executive Leader category.
The award recognizes the GMA Network chairman for his outstanding contributions to the field of communication and underscores his pivotal role in transforming GMA into the powerhouse it is today and in changing the landscape of Philippine broadcast media.
“This award is meaningful as it recognizes the crucial role of communication in business. Communication—strategic, inclusive, and rooted in truth—is a cornerstone of a successful enterprise. Well-crafted and inspiring, it has the power to move minds and hearts,” said Gozon.
As one of Asia’s top broadcast CEOs, Gozon’s leadership led to the phenomenal rise of GMA Network to the multi-billion peso, the dominant industry force it is today that leads in ratings, revenues, and reach. The visionary Gozon transformed GMA into one of the largest, most trusted, and most profitable media conglomerates today, all while keeping his reputation pristine in an industry that walks the tightrope of economic, political, and social issues.
A seasoned blue-chip lawyer and formidable courtroom gladiator, Gozon had an extensive list of professional achievements and distinctions before his career in media. But his success began early on: he finished in the top ten of the University of the Philippines Law Class of 1962, and took the bar examination in the same year, placing 13th overall. Thereafter, he pursued his Master of Laws at Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut, USA.
Gozon’s passion for excellence continued in GMA Network, where his stewardship also led to pioneering new narratives that resonated with Kapuso audiences. Driven by his belief in television’s profound impact on educating, mobilizing, and impacting change in society, GMA Network has become even more dedicated to providing significant talent and airtime to broadcast vital information for free.
GMA Network Vice President for Corporate Affairs and Communications Angela Javier-Cruz, who nominated Gozon for the IABC 2024 COTY Award, reflects on Gozon’s unique and personal communication style that goes beyond ethical practices.
Javier-Cruz lauds Gozon’s communication style prioritizing open dialogue with stakeholders, and valuing their feedback.
“So when we speak of communication as a two-way system, Attorney Gozon embodies it, and leads by example. He gives his full attention to issues raised by executives, stakeholders, and employees alike, and responds to ensure all voices are heard and valued,” Javier-Cruz said.
Gozon is the third consecutive winner from the Philippines to win the IABC Asia Pacific COTY Award in the Executive Leader Category. He joins the esteemed group of previous IABC Asia Pacific COTY Executive Leader awardees that include President and CEO of Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) Jose Teodoro K. Limcaoco, Chairman and CEO of Grupo Agatep Charlie A. Agatep, and former Chief Minister, Australian Capital Territory Kate Carnell.
The IABC Asia Pacific Communicator of the Year Award celebrates exceptional communication excellence. The COTY Award also honors individuals who have demonstrated leadership in strategic communication.