Meet the 2025 Tatler Impact awardees: EJ Obiena, Mahar Lagmay, Nanette Medved-Po

he Tatler Ball annually recognises individuals whose achievements extend beyond personal success, leaving a lasting impact on society. In 2025, the Tatler Impact Awards honoured three distinguished leaders whose work in culture, innovation and humanity continues to shape the Philippine landscape while resonating beyond its borders.

The awards, a highlight of the Tatler Ball held on November 22, was hosted by Tatler Philippines editor-in-chief Anton San Diego alongside actor, TV host and multi-hyphenate Anne Curtis. The honours were presented by Dr Ramon S Francisco, a member of the board of directors of Tatler Philippines, and Isabel Martel Francisco, deputy editorial director and dining editor of Tatler Philippines.

Impact Awardee for Humanity: Nanette Medved-Po

Long known for her earlier roles in media and film, Nanette Medved‑Po has become one of the Philippines’ most effective social entrepreneurs and environmental advocates. As founder and executive chair of HOPE and Plastic Credit Exchange (PCX), she has championed accessible healthcare initiatives, particularly for underserved populations, and promoted nutrition, wellness and education programmes nationwide.

Her “Aling Tindera” initiative is particularly striking: micro-entrepreneur women in barangays buy plastic waste from their communities, giving value to what is otherwise discarded and turning trash into income.

Medved-Po’s approach combines policy, philanthropy and grassroots engagement, creating programmes that are sustainable, inclusive and practical. Her work demonstrates that systemic change is possible when compassion is paired with strategic action.

Reflecting on her recognition, Medved-Po highlights the fulfilment in seeing communities gain access to opportunities that improve their health and quality of life.

The 2025 Tatler Impact Awards affirm that influence means little if not grounded in purpose. Obiena’s vaults over six metres, Lagmay’s maps of risk and Medved‑Po’s coastal cleanups all share a common thread: they leverage personal excellence to create lasting benefit.

The 24th Tatler Ball is made possible by the support of our partners, Tiffany & Co, Lexus, Belo, HSBC, Megaworld and Tom Ford. We are grateful for the support of Bacchus Epicerie, Perrier-Jouët, Royal Salute, Martell XO and Shangri-la The Fort, Manila.

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This article was originally published here in Tatler Asia.