Icons of Change Awards PhilMarine 2025

A Decade of Marine Excellence: The PHILMARINE Aqua Queen of the Universe Fashion Show Champions Ocean Advocacy through Culture, Innovation, and Sustainable Partnerships
June 20, 2025 | SMX Convention Center, Pasay City, Philippines
In response to growing global imperatives to protect and restore our marine ecosystems, and in celebration of a decade of progressive maritime collaboration, the Philippines will host “A Decade of Marine Excellence: The PHILMARINE Aqua Queen of the Universe Fashion Show” on June 20, 2025, at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. This milestone event, held alongside PHILMARINE 2025, signifies a confluence of creative expression, policy advocacy, and grassroots environmental action—representing a shared commitment to the future of the seas and the communities that depend on them.
Organized in strategic partnership with Aqua Queen of the Universe, The International Ecotourism Society (TIES) – Philippines, Icons of Change, and Fireworks Trade Exhibitions & Conferences Philippines, Inc., this commemorative program reflects the Philippines’ growing leadership in marine sustainability and ocean-based innovation across Southeast Asia and the Pacific. TIES Philippines, under the visionary leadership of Vilma De Claro Mendoza, the organization's Founder, and Justin Ho Guo Shun, President of TIES Asia Pacific, plays a crucial role in advocating for sustainable tourism practices, ocean protection, and community-centered initiatives.
The event is rooted in the values and framework of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 14: Life Below Water, Goal 13: Climate Action, Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, Goal 5: Gender Equality, and Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals. It offers a platform for inclusive dialogue and creative diplomacy, engaging diverse sectors in transformative conversations on how we collectively build a more resilient and sustainable marine future.
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Government, Civil Society, and Creative Industries in Dialogue
Reflecting strong national and institutional support, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) will deliver a keynote address to articulate how integrated marine and coastal development policies are aligned with the Philippines’ broader commitment to climate-resilient, inclusive growth. NEDA’s participation highlights the state’s strategic role in guiding cross-sectoral collaboration toward sustainable blue economy development.
The program will also be enriched by the presence of distinguished keynote speakers:
Mr. Roberto “Ka Dodoy” Ballon, a Ramon Magsaysay Awardee, whose community-led mangrove rehabilitation work in Zamboanga Sibugay has earned international acclaim for advancing ecosystem restoration and local livelihoods through participatory conservation.
Mr. David D’Angelo, a noted environmental advocate and sustainability educator, whose long-standing efforts in public awareness, youth empowerment, and climate education exemplify the vital role of civic society in marine stewardship.
Mr. Ludwig Federigan, Executive Director of the Young Environmental Forum and a Non-Resident Fellow of the Stratbase ADR Institute, one of the Philippines’ respected think tanks. He also heads the Information and Knowledge Management Division of the Climate Change Commission (Philippines). A prolific writer, Mr. Federigan maintains a column titled All About Choices in the business section of The Manila Times, the country’s oldest English daily newspaper, where he has authored over a hundred articles on environmental issues, climate change, sustainability, and leadership. His insights bring a critical policy and media lens to the evolving discourse on climate resilience and ocean governance.
Mr. Gerry Mercado, CEO of GMP Artist Inc. and National Director for Team Philippines at the World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA), whose unique journey bridges marine conservation and the performing arts. A certified diver and biodiversity advocate, Gerry has championed coral reef preservation, river protection, and youth empowerment through the arts. Under his leadership, Team Philippines has achieved global distinction, making him the only National Director worldwide to earn the prestigious Diamond National Director Award. Gerry brings a compelling lens on how cultural diplomacy and environmental action can be seamlessly integrated to promote national pride, sustainability, and global recognition for Filipino talent.
In further support of maritime safety, civic duty, and ecological defense, the event is honored to welcome representatives of the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary, whose operational leadership in marine protection, rescue, and pollution response continues to play a pivotal role in safeguarding the nation’s coastlines and communities.
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Host Spotlight: Raymond “Mon” Gorospe Anchors the Event
Bringing vibrant energy and polish to this high-level gathering is Raymond “Mon” Gorospe, who will serve as the official Host of the event. Widely respected in the Philippines’ performing arts, fitness, and media circles, Mon is a multi-faceted talent with a career spanning decades.
A performer, actor, fitness advocate, and seasoned host, Mon first entered the entertainment world in the 1990s by serendipitous discovery—and never looked back. He is a decorated talent at the World Championship of Performing Arts (WCOPA), having brought home multiple medals in gospel, modeling, Broadway, and acting.
A trailblazer in the local fitness movement, Mon was among the first advocates of functional fitness in 2011, and today serves as Chairman of the Swimming Committee at Celebrity Sports Club, in addition to his roles in NPC Bodybuilding and the WFF committee. His face is familiar to many, having endorsed brands such as Centrum Silver, Red Ribbon, Red Fiber, and Vicks ZzzQuil—even amid pandemic constraints.
Beyond his commercial success, Mon exemplifies service and impact. Together with his wife, Dr. Mae Gorospe, and their three children, he supports quarterly feeding programs for Aeta communities, using his performances as a fundraising vehicle for social good.
Known for hosting major pageants and high-profile events—including the 46th Mrs. Universe coronation—Mon brings both gravitas and charisma to the stage. His presence at A Decade of Marine Excellence elevates the celebration, bridging advocacy, entertainment, and inspiration.
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Celebrating Sustainability Through Culture and Design
Beyond its diplomatic and policy dimensions, the event aims to reframe ocean conservation as a space of creativity and storytelling. Central to the celebration is a marine-inspired sustainable fashion showcase by acclaimed designers Ms. Marjorie Renner and Mr. John Guarnes.
Ms. Marjorie Renner is known for her eco-conscious design principles, elevating sustainable fashion through couture made from discarded materials and natural fibers—challenging traditional definitions of luxury and urging consumers to reduce their ecological footprint.
Mr. John Guarnes, a celebrated designer and sustainable fashion advocate, brings a unique vision to the runway by fusing eco-friendly materials and traditional craftsmanship to create fashion that tells a story of conservation and environmental stewardship. His designs highlight the delicate balance between innovation and sustainability, offering a beautiful yet thoughtful commentary on the health of our oceans.
Together, they will showcase pieces that celebrate marine-inspired creativity while promoting sustainable production practices and mindful consumption.
The fashion segment will be followed by the premiere of a pioneering underwater fashion film produced by Aqua Queen of the Universe. This visually stunning short film, entirely shot beneath the ocean’s surface, merges expressive movement, aquatic imagery, and environmental messaging to reflect the interdependence of human culture and marine health. The film not only highlights the beauty of our oceans but also underscores their vulnerability, calling attention to the urgent need for collective protection and reverence.
Adding a dynamic cultural dimension to the program, performers from the World Championship of Performing Arts (WCOPA) will present a world-class artistic showcase. Their participation underscores the power of performance as a unifying force, merging global talent with marine advocacy to elevate awareness through music and theatrical expression. The WCOPA segment will feature international-caliber talents whose acts are inspired by themes of environmental justice, unity, and the call to safeguard our oceans.
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From Advocacy to Action: Community-Centered Marine Conservation
The event also provides a forum for sharing real-world practices that have measurable environmental impact. Ms. Erilene Antonio Noche, founder of Aqua Queen of the Universe, will lead a visual presentation and dialogue focusing on her team’s community-based marine projects. These include coral farming initiatives, artificial reef installations, and underwater cleanup drives, all of which are conducted in partnership with youth leaders, fisherfolk, divers, and environmental volunteers across Philippine coastal regions.
These initiatives serve as inspiring examples of how locally driven action can contribute meaningfully to national and global conservation goals. They also highlight the importance of inclusive leadership—especially the role of women and young people in shaping marine futures through hands-on engagement and innovation.
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Open Dialogue and Shared Responsibility
An interactive open forum, moderated by Ms. Noche, will convene voices from across the maritime, fashion, academic, and environmental sectors. The dialogue will provide space for participants to share best practices, ask critical questions, and explore opportunities for deeper cooperation across industries. It will also serve as a springboard for future partnerships focused on developing climate-smart, inclusive, and economically viable marine solutions.
The event will close with a collective call to action, urging all attendees—whether policymakers, designers, educators, business leaders, or advocates—to continue integrating sustainability into their respective spheres of influence. Participants will be invited to reflect on the legacy of the past decade and commit to building on its successes with renewed purpose and vision.
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A Decade of Marine Excellence: The PHILMARINE Aqua Queen of the Universe Fashion Show is not only a celebration of what has been accomplished—it is a commitment to what still must be done. As the Philippines and the global community navigate the complex challenges of climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental justice, this gathering affirms the transformative power of unity, creativity, and leadership.
The event stands as a compelling reminder that sustainable marine development cannot be achieved by any one sector alone. It must be pursued through dialogue, mutual respect, and the courageous belief that even the most intricate challenges can be overcome when we work together for the common good.
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We invite stakeholders from all sectors to join us on June 20, 2025, at the SMX Convention Center for a landmark celebration of marine excellence, sustainability, and the enduring strength of partnership.
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