George Washington Ball

The annual George Washington Charity Ball is an anticipated flagship social event celebrated by the American Association of the Philippines (AAP) since its inception in 1949

Help us transform lives:

“Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders: Igniting Transformation Change, Inspired by George Washington.”

Join us in a meaningful cause with the American Association of the Philippines (AAP) as we work to provide quality education and healthcare to underserved communities. Everyone deserves access to these essential services.

We invite you to make a positive impact at the 78th George Washington Charity Ball, taking place at the Marriott Hotel Manila on February 15, 2026. This special event will feature inspiring performances and will raise funds for our charitable efforts.

Your support can make a real difference. By contributing to our educational assistance programs or medical missions, you can provide hope and opportunities to those in need.

**AAP Vision**

We strive to strengthen relationships between Filipinos and Americans through cultural understanding and to bridge the educational gap for young Filipinos through scholarships and assistance.

Each year, the American Association of the Philippines (AAP) acknowledges outstanding individuals for their exemplary contributions to the country and community. Their exceptional performance in their respective fields, driven by a social purpose, extends vital assistance to those in need. Congratulations to all our awardees this year.

Profiles in Excellence Award presented to Mr. Jhett Tolentino: World Class Excellence in the Performing Arts during the 78th Annual Celebration of George Washington Charity Ball, at the Marriott Hotel, Manila Ballroom.

Mr. Jhett Dizon Tolentino is a renowned Filipino film, theatre, and music producer, recognized for his accomplishments on Broadway and in the U.S. entertainment industry. Proudly hailing from Iloilo City, Philippines, he has established himself as a key figure in serious international arts. These accomplishments are unprecedented in Filipino history in the country or in the USA, representing world class Producing skills that have brought great honor to the country.

Major Achievements:

**Tony Awards**

Tolentino has won three prestigious Tony Awards:

- **2013:** Best Play for *Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike*

- **2014:** Best Musical for *A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder*

- **2014:** Best Revival of a Play for *A Raisin in the Sun*

**Grammy Award**

In 2017, he received a Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album for *The Color Purple*, making him one of the few Filipinos to earn major U.S. entertainment awards.

**Records and Recognition**

He is the first Filipino to win both a TONY (actually 3) and Grammy as well, and second Philippine-born Tony Award winner after Lea Salonga. In 2018, Tolentino was honored with the Pamana ng Pilipino Award for his cultural contributions and recognized as an Outstanding Filipino American in Entertainment.

Mr. Tolentino has produced roughly 18 Broadway and off-Broadway productions in just 7 years and directed the award-winning documentary *Life Is What You Make It*. His company, Jhett Tolentino Productions, Inc., supports Filipino artists and creates opportunities for talent.

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AAP is proud to honor the Honorable Justice Antonio T. Carpio (Ret.) with the Profiles of Excellence Award for Legal Eminence in World-Class Jurisprudence. He also served as the keynote speaker during the 78th Annual Celebration of the George Washington Charity Ball, which took place on February 15, 2026, at the Marriott Hotel in the Manila Ballroom.

We would like to congratulate Dr. Cielito F. Habito, Ph.D., on being honored during the 78th Annual Celebration of the George Washington Charity Ball with the Profiles in Excellence Award for Excellence in Development Economics.

Mr. Manuel Tordesillas received the Profile in Excellence Award for his exceptional contributions to financial innovation in the Philippine capital markets. His visionary approach and dedication have significantly advanced the industry, inspiring others and driving transformative change. He is recognized as a visionary leader, a committed steward of corporate governance, and a pillar of Philippine finance.