Jose Mari Chan is one of the Philippines' most beloved musical icons, known as the “King of Philippine Christmas Carols.” Chan’s influence has resonated across generations, bridging Filipino communities worldwide through his music's timeless melodies and heartfelt lyrics.

In his 55 years of being a singer-songwriter-recording artist in the Philippines, he holds the distinction of being the biggest selling artist in the country, having recorded 14 albums and the holder of several Platinum awards in sales. Notably he is the only Philippine recording artist with 3 Diamond Record Awards in sales. A Diamond Record is equivalent to 10 Platinum Awards in sales.

His first recording “Afterglow” was released in 1967 followed by a series of top hits which include such classics as “Deep in My Heart”, “Refrain”, “Tell Me Your Name”, “Beautiful Girl”, “Constant Change”, “Please Be Careful with My Heart”, “Hahanapin Ko”, “A Love to Last A Lifetime”, “Love at 30,000 Feet” and many others. His biggest perennial sellers are his “Christmas In Our Hearts” and “A Perfect Christmas” which continue to define the Yuletide Season in the Philippines all these 32 years. Jose Mari also wrote several music scores for Philippine movies. Jose Mari Chan’s songs have been recorded by artists in Australia, Japan, Hong Kong, Indonesia, and in the United States.

In 1974, he was named one of the 10 Outstanding Young Men of the Philippines in the field of the arts. As a concert artist, Jose Mari has performed globally: at the Carnegie Hall in New York, the Bellagio in Las Vegas and other prestigious halls in Tokyo, London, Vienna, Zurich, Paris, Toronto, and others.

Ladies and gentlemen, may we present to you, our Excellence in Music Awardee, Jose Mari Chan.