MANILA, PHILIPPINES – People face immense struggles in their daily lives, often hiding them behind a mask. Sometimes, it reaches the point of almost giving up — but more often than not, it’s in pushing forward that we uncover a future we never knew was possible. This was the case for 17th Kidlat Awards Hall of Fame Awardee, Javey Villones.
Javey is the Head of Art at VML Manila, where he has worked for many years. His work has been recognized both locally and internationally. You might be familiar with some of his notable projects, including KitKat’s “Break Bar” campaign and Globe’s “A Star Wars Experience,” among others.
When Javey accepted the 4As Creative Guild Hall of Fame award at the 17th Kidlat Awards, held at The Fifth at Rockwell in Makati City on May 9, 2025, he was joined by his adorable son, Xavin — who charmed the audience as he ran playfully back and forth across the stage.
Amid the moment of joy, Javey shared something deeply personal during his speech: he had lost his ability to speak after being diagnosed with aphasia.
“Aphasia — the kind where your brain knows the word, but your mouth forgets how to find it. Terrifying, especially when your career is built on finding the right words at the right time,” Javey shared.
Javey didn’t give up — he returned to the advertising industry despite his condition because, for him, there were still “stories to tell” and ideas he wanted to create with the people he loved. “I never thought I’d see the day when I’d get to say thank you,” Javey said.
He went on to thank the many people who helped him get to where he is today — most especially his wife, Ten Franco, whom he described as “the best partner a creative person could have,” always telling him the truth about his ideas.
Javey ended his speech on an emotional note, sharing that his son, Xavin, was the reason he pushed through his recovery. “I just wanted to meet you. To hold you in my arms. Everything amazing that came after? A beautiful bonus,” he said.
Javey’s journey is a testament to the kind of creativity that refuses to be silenced. Though he faced one of the most terrifying challenges a communicator can experience, he proved that creativity isn’t just about ideas — it’s about the grit to keep creating, even when the words are hard to find.
Hall of fame awardees nomination process
Nominees must have no less than three international golds (or their equivalent), each for a different campaign, from recognized award shows such as Cannes, D&AD, Clio, One Show, Spikes, AdFest, New York Festivals, and London International.
They must also have no less than five Kidlat Award golds (or Creative Guild AOY for pre-2007 work), each awarded for a different campaign.
Meeting the above qualifications does not automatically guarantee induction. Final decisions will still be subject to discussion by the Creative Guild and the 4As board.
Other merits that will be considered include a nominee’s record as a creative leader — specifically as an executive creative director (ECD) or above, or as a Filipino creative in a leadership position abroad.
Cited work must have been done for Philippine agencies (especially for expats) or must be by Filipino citizens.
The number of honorees per year will be limited and subject to the discretion of the board.
adobo Magazine is the official media partner of CreativeFest 2025 and the 17th Kidlat Awards.
