George Erwin M. Garcia, the 23rd Chairman of the Commission on Elections (Comelec), has been honored as Man of the Year at the 6th Asia Leaders Awards for his significant impact on electoral processes. Known for his quiet demeanor yet outstanding public service, Garcia is the epitome of the ideal public servant. His expertise in election law is unparalleled, demonstrated by his meticulous approach to legal strategy, which he plans in detail before any case even begins.
Garcia’s career spans decades of distinguished service in both the public and private sectors. Before his current role, he served as a Comelec Commissioner and was the principal and founder of G.E. Garcia Law Office, where his legal acumen contributed to several landmark cases. His extensive academic experience includes serving as Dean of the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila College of Law and Law Center, as well as being a lecturer and resource person in election law.
In addition to his legal work, Chairman Garcia dedicated ten years to pro bono service on UNTV’s “Huntahang Ligal,” promoting legal literacy and access to justice. At Comelec, he champions transparency, inclusivity, and progressive reforms, aiming for fair, honest, and credible elections.
For his extraordinary commitment to public service, Garcia was recognized as one of the Top 50 emerging leaders in the Philippines, alongside other notable figures.
The 6th Asia Leaders Awards honored several exceptional individuals and organizations across various categories:
Men of the Year:
- BIR Commissioner: Romeo Lumagui Jr.
- Comelec Chair: George Erwin M. Garcia
- DFA: Dr. Jesus “Gary” Domingo
- LGU: Gov. Hermilando Ingco Mandanas
Company of the Year: 5. Franchising: Shawarma Shack 6. Human Capital: Viventis Asia 7. Global: 24/7 AI 8. Tech: realme 9. Global IT: Atos Philippines
Woman of the Year: 10. President Atty. Agnes Devanadera – Clark Development Corporation
Young Leader of the Year: 11. Mary Elaine Timbol of Sakahon 12. Vice Mayor Ronin Leviste of Lian, Batangas
Influencer of the Year: 13. Caesar Vallejos – Media 14. Puey Quiñones – Fashion Design
Woman of Substance: 15. Rayla Allertsen – IamSam 16. Merle Mendoza Balicao – Mernels 17. Alodia Gosiengfiao Quimbo 18. Mharicar Castillo-Reyes – Asticom 19. Chi Atienza Valdepeñas
Fastest Growing SME of the Year: 20. Asian Consulting Group – Mon Abrea
The event, held at The Manila Hotel, featured a celebration of these distinguished leaders, with welcome remarks from Atty. Jose David Lina, and a keynote address by Glenda Dela Cruz of Brilliant Skin Essentials. Andria Terese Nicolas of Tag Media Group and His Excellency Malaysia Ambassador Dato Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino also spoke, highlighting the honorees as the nation’s builders and future leaders.
The ceremony was attended by prominent figures from various sectors, including the US Embassy, the Embassy of Romania, the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, and several other distinguished guests. The event’s aim was to recognize and inspire through the achievements of these world-class leaders in both public and private sectors.
