Now in its 15th year, The Outstanding Filipino Awards (TOFA), the US-based award-giving body founded in 2010 by Filipino journalist and community leader Elton Lugay, recognizes the achievements of these individuals in their respective fields worldwide, which include public service, education, sports, fashion, pageantry, science, and entertainment, and listed Kris Lawrence as among the awardees.
The Prince of RnB, recently added another feather to his cap, as he earned the distinction of being among this year’s Top 100 Most Influential Filipinos, held at the Orleans Showroom in Las Vegas, Nevada, on October 17, hosted by King of Talk Boy Abunda.
Kris confessed upon hearing about the award for the first time, “Honestly, kinilig ako!”
“It’s one thing to be recognized for your craft, but to be named among the Top 100 Most Influential Filipinos in the World—that’s a different kind of honor. I felt humbled, grateful, and emotional. It reminded me that every song, every show, every story I’ve shared had somehow touched lives beyond what I could see.”
His singing career kicked off after winning the second edition of the Search for Star in a Million (2006), also considers the following among his most cherished awards: Masked Singer Philippines season 2 grand champion (2024), Awit Awards Most Downloaded Artist of the Year, and Most Downloaded Song of the Year (2011, for his cover of Careless Whisper), Awit Awards Best RnB Recording (2010, 2015, 2018), RnB Album of the Year (2014, 2016) and RnB Artist of the Year (2014, 2016, 2024) at the 26th Star Awards for Music.
Asked to cite the criteria for his inclusion in the esteemed list, Kris elaborates, “From what I understand, it’s a combination of overall influence, achievements, consistency, and contribution to culture—both locally and internationally.
“I think it’s less about numbers and more about the impact behind them. Influence, for me, is about inspiring people to dream bigger, to believe in themselves, and to walk in purpose.”
Kris admits that being cited as a person of influence makes him even more aware (and mindful) of his values and moral compass, especially now that he’s a dad.
“Absolutely! The older I get, the more I realize that influence is responsibility. Now that I’m a dad, I want my kids to see that success isn’t just about fame or trophies—it’s about character, integrity, and how you make others feel. This recognition motivates me to keep growing, not just as an artist, but as a man and a proud father.”
Kris also can’t help but be patriotic for being recognized by a US-based award-giving body, no less.
“Being born and raised in L.A. but choosing to build my career in the Philippines gave me the best of both worlds. Receiving this kind of recognition from a US-based organization makes me proud to represent what it means to be Filipino—our talent, resilience, and heart. Wherever I go, I carry that flag with me,” he proudly added.
As an interesting sidelight, an official afterparty/concert dubbed Piliin Mo Ang Pilipino, was held the next day, October 18, at the Orleans Hotel and Casino to honor the 100 awardees, featuring high-octane performances by Kris, Jaya, Nonoy Zuñiga, and other surprise celebrity guests.
Fueled by his recent citation, Kris clearly isn’t resting on his laurels.
He points out, “Beyond that, I’m focused on creating more music that uplifts, connects, and represents who I am today. I want to keep growing—creatively, spiritually, and personally. The journey continues, and I’m just grateful to still be doing what I love to do.”
“This past trip, I’ve been blessed with the opportunity to create so much music, which I plan to release next year. Being back in the States for four months helped rekindle my musical creativity. The heartfelt recognition and being surrounded by inspiring and talented people helped reignite the fire within.”
Among Lawrence’s co-awardees were boxing champ Nonito Donaire, globally acclaimed actress Dolly de Leon, Queen of Soul Jaya, singer-actress Rachel Alejandro, and Concert Queen Pops Fernandez, among many others.
“That was such a vibe!” Kris recalled.
“The energy there was like a big reunion—artists celebrating each other’s wins. The highlight for me was just feeling the unity in the room, cheering and reminding the world that Filipino talent is world-class.”
Meanwhile, the ever-busy performer who spent most of the latter half of 2025 shuttling to and from the States, is ecstatic about the positive response to his recently launched single, Nobody, inspired by his daughter Katie.
He exclaimed, “The feedback has been incredible! The song has been getting so much love. It’s personal, heartfelt, and people feel the authenticity. I’ve been doing promo runs, and I’m also planning shows both in the Philippines and the U.S.”
As part of his last salvo for 2025, Kris has upcoming shows in Auckland, New Zealand (November 8), Cebu (December 5), and Dubai (December 13).
