Pinoy Film Producer Honored at Global Filipino Icon Awards 2025

Aquino Plotado, a distinguished Dubai-based real estate entrepreneur, film producer, and philanthropist, was recently recognized at the prestigious Global Filipino Icon Awards 2025, held in Dubai on April 5, 2025. 

Plotado won a Star Icon Award for Outstanding Filipino Entrepreneur in Property and Entertainment, recognizing his significant impact in both business and the creative industries.

The event celebrated outstanding achievements across journalism, entertainment, fashion, culinary arts, music, and other creative fields, with Ms. Kara David serving as Guest of Honor.

Among the notable awardees were Arci Muñoz, Sheryl Cruz, Thirdy Ravena, Shereen Ahmed, Troy Laureta, Chef JP Anglo, Harvey Cenit, and Ron Awa alongside internationally acclaimed fashion designer Michael Cinco.

In the real estate industry, Aquino was also recognized as one of the Top Sales Agents at FAM Properties, the largest real estate company in the UAE, during Q4 2023. Later, upon joining Metropolitan Premium Properties, he successfully closed a major deal on his very first day and surpassed his annual sales target within just one month by securing a transaction worth AED 25 million.

Beyond his achievements in real estate, Plotado has made notable strides in the creative sector. He produced the short film "As The Call, So The Echo," starring Enzo Pineda and directed by Rusty Palacio Guarin, which became a finalist at the 11th Emirates Short Film Festival 2025. The film garnered multiple accolades, including Best Actor for Enzo Pineda and Best Director for Rusty Palacio Guarin, along with nominations for Best Film and Best Child Actor (Prince España).

Outside his professional ventures, Aquino Plotado is deeply committed to philanthropy through his charity organization, the Aquino Plotado Philanthropy Foundation.

Recently, he made a significant contribution to his alma mater, Potrero National High School in Malabon City, Philippines. Through a donation of ₱1 million, he supported the school's development programs, in addition to providing nine printers for various academic departments and a sound system for school events and Sunday Masses.

To honor his former teachers and the school community, Plotado organized and fully funded a heartfelt tribute event titled "A Celebration of Gratitude Honoring Our Teachers and School," held on March 30, 2025. 

Although he could not attend personally due to business commitments, he allocated a total budget of nearly ₱3 million to cover the donations, cash gifts to teachers and alumni, and full event production. The event was made even more memorable with a special guest appearance by Filipino celebrity Mark Herras.

Plotado’s efforts were further acknowledged when he was invited to serve as Guest Speaker for the school’s 2025 High School Recognition Day on April 8, 2025, where he delivered an inspirational video message.

The Aquino Plotado Philanthropy Foundation remains steadfast in its mission to uplift public schools across the Philippines, providing students and educators with better resources and greater opportunities for success.

For the Potrero National High School community and beyond, Aquino Plotado’s unwavering generosity stands as a testament to the enduring power of gratitude, education, and giving back to the community that shaped him.