The Outstanding Filipino Awards (TOFA) has announced the first group of honorees for its 16th annual celebration, spotlighting Filipino and Filipino American leaders whose work spans global entertainment, public service, advocacy and cultural leadership.
The awards ceremony will be held Oct. 24 at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, with television host Boy Abunda set to emcee. Tickets start at $100 and are available through Ticketmaster.
Leading this year’s honorees is Grammy-winning artist and philanthropist Apl.de.ap, born Allan Pineda Lindo, whose global influence in music has been matched by sustained advocacy for education and youth empowerment. A founding member of the Black Eyed Peas, Apl.de.ap established the Apl.de.Ap Foundation International in 2011, building classrooms, computer labs and learning centers in underserved communities. The foundation has also partnered with institutions including the Asian Development Bank to expand technical training opportunities, particularly in emerging industries.
In diplomacy and international relations, former U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines Harry Thomas Jr. and his wife, Filipina executive Mithi Aquino Thomas, are being recognized for their role in strengthening bilateral ties. During his tenure from 2010 to 2013, Thomas advanced security, economic and cultural cooperation while maintaining strong engagement with Filipino communities. Mithi Aquino Thomas has supported cultural and civic initiatives that promote Filipino identity and participation. Together, they continue to champion education and cross-cultural exchange.
Kuh Ledesma, one of the Philippines’ most enduring music icons, is also among this year’s honorees. With a career spanning more than four decades, Ledesma helped define original Pilipino music through hit songs such as “Till I Met You.” She has performed internationally, released numerous albums and contributed to charitable and faith-based initiatives, sustaining her influence across generations of artists and audiences.
In public service, Sharol P. Noblejas, honorary consul of the Philippines in Florida, is recognized for her leadership in advancing Filipino interests at the state level. As founder and president of Jax Filipinos Inc., the largest Filipino organization in Florida, Noblejas has led efforts in cultural preservation, humanitarian outreach and leadership development. Her work with local government bodies, including Jacksonville’s Housing and Community Development Commission, has strengthened representation and support for Filipino Americans.
Fashion designer Veejay Floresca is recognized for breaking barriers in the fashion industry. In 2025, she became the first openly transgender winner of “Project Runway” Season 21, marking a milestone for LGBTQ+ representation. Floresca’s work emphasizes identity-driven design and inclusivity, expanding visibility for both Filipino and transgender creatives.
Author and autism advocate Redner Salonga, M.Ed., BCBA, is being honored for his work in advancing awareness and acceptance of individuals on the autism spectrum. Drawing from personal experience, Salonga has led community discussions, connected families to resources and promoted inclusive education. His advocacy has helped bring conversations about neurodiversity into broader public discourse.
Community leadership is represented by Joey Omila, a longtime Filipino American leader in Tampa Bay. With more than two decades of service, Omila has helped develop cornerstone institutions such as PhilFest and the Bayanihan Arts and Events Center. His work has strengthened cultural infrastructure and expanded Filipino visibility in the region.
Rounding out the honorees is Filipina American singer Jenn Cuneta, whose 2005 single “Come Rain Come Shine” reached No. 2 on the Billboard Dance Airplay chart. The track’s international success helped position Cuneta among the first Filipino artists to gain significant traction on U.S. charts. She continues to perform globally while mentoring emerging talent.
TOFA organizers said the 2026 honorees reflect the breadth of Filipino excellence across industries and communities, underscoring a shared commitment to leadership, representation and cultural pride.
Buy tickets here via Ticketmaster: The 16th Annual TOFA Awards
