The Philippine public relations industry is showing clear signs of strength and momentum, and the 61st ANVIL Awards proves just that. Organized by the Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP), this year’s edition of the country’s most prestigious PR awards drew strong participation from companies and agencies across sectors.
Often referred to as the “Oscars” of Philippine public relations, the ANVIL Awards remains a trusted barometer of how the industry is evolving. With hundreds of entries and a growing pool of participating organizations, the latest edition reflects renewed confidence in the value, credibility, and impact of professional PR work in the country.
Steady Entries, Bigger Industry Participation
For the 61st ANVIL Awards, PRSP received a total of 622 entries, closely matching last year’s 649 submissions. While the overall number of entries remained relatively steady, what stood out was the sharp increase in the number of participating organizations.
This year, 193 organizations submitted entries, a significant jump from last year’s 118 participants. The total includes 151 companies and 42 agencies, marking one of the broadest industry turnouts in recent years.
For PRSP leaders, this growth speaks volumes.
“For us, this increase in participation is especially meaningful,” shared Ana Pista, APR, Vice President for External of PRSP and Chair of the 61st ANVIL Awards. “It shows that more organizations see value in having their work measured against clear standards of strategy, creativity, and results.”
She added that the ANVIL Awards continues to be a platform where PR professionals challenge themselves and contribute to shaping what excellence in public relations looks like today.
Campaigns Take the Spotlight, Tools Highlight Execution
Entries were evaluated under two main categories: PR Programs and PR Tools, each designed to recognize a different aspect of public relations excellence.
The PR Programs category, which focuses on full-scale campaigns, received the bulk of submissions. From these, 39 Gold ANVILs and 120 Silver ANVILs were awarded, reflecting the depth, competitiveness, and strategic thinking behind this year’s campaign entries.
Meanwhile, the PR Tools category recognized executional excellence in communication materials. This category awarded 3 Gold ANVILs and 25 Silver ANVILs, highlighting innovation in platforms, content, and delivery.
The distinction between the two categories is intentional and essential to the awards’ credibility.
A PR Program refers to a complete campaign, including research, objectives, audience insights, strategy, execution, and evaluation. The most outstanding campaign earns the Grand ANVIL, the highest honor under this category.
PR Tools, on the other hand, focus on specific communication materials such as media kits, websites, videos, digital platforms, events, apps, and internal communication tools. The top recognition here is the Platinum ANVIL, awarded to the most effective PR Tool.
“This distinction allows us to recognize both strategic excellence and executional innovation,” Pista explained. “A strong campaign needs both a clear strategy and well-designed tools that bring that strategy to life.”
A Rigorous and Credible Judging Process
Maintaining the integrity of the ANVIL Awards means ensuring a thorough and transparent evaluation process. All submissions underwent multiple levels of review, beginning with screening and judging by a panel of around 75 judges from the fields of communications, media, business, and related industries.
Results were then validated by SGV & Co., PRSP’s external auditor, before moving to final deliberations by a Panel of Jurors, which took place on January 10.
From this final stage, six entries were named Top PR Programs, while four entries emerged as Top PR Tools, representing the highest distinctions in their respective categories.
Pista expressed appreciation for the judges and jurors who dedicated time and expertise to the process, particularly as much of the evaluation took place during the holiday season. Their rigor and professional insight continue to uphold the credibility of the awards.
Pushing Past Possibilities for the PR Industry
The 61st ANVIL Awards carried the theme “The 61st Second: Pushing Past Possibilities.” According to PRSP, this theme reflects the organization’s commitment to keeping the awards relevant as the PR landscape continues to evolve.
“This year’s theme speaks to our intention to keep the ANVIL Awards globally relevant and responsive to the changing demands of public relations,” Pista shared. She emphasized that while creativity remains important, it must always be anchored in research, strategy, and measurable outcomes.
In an industry that is becoming increasingly complex and accountable, the awards aim to celebrate work that delivers both impact and substance.
Countdown to Gabi ng Parangal
The complete list of winners will be officially announced during the Gabi ng Parangal on January 28, to be held at Ballrooms 2 and 3 of Solaire Resort North, starting at 5:00 PM.
As anticipation builds, the PR community once again prepares to celebrate campaigns and tools that push boundaries, deliver results, and elevate the practice of public relations in the Philippines.
Now on its 61st year, the ANVIL Awards continues to stand as the industry’s gold standard, honoring not just creativity, but thoughtful, disciplined, and results-driven communication that truly makes a difference.