Davao Conyo credits ‘original creator’ for top TikTok honor
MANILA, Philippines — Philip Te Hernandez, the content creator behind the popular online persona Davao Conyo, was among the biggest winners at the TikTok Awards 2026, themed “The Ones Who Spark It.” Known for his comedic skits on social media, Philip bagged the coveted Creator of the Year award, earning him the opportunity to represent the Philippines at the inaugural TikTok Awards Southeast Asia.
Held on Nov. 5 in Makati, the TikTok Philippines Awards ceremony recognized local content creators whose creativity, influence and storytelling have made an impact on the platform.
For Philip, the recognition was particularly meaningful, as he revealed during his acceptance speech that he had been nominated several times before but had never won.
“This means so much to me as someone who always gets nominated but I never win,” he said.
He also joked about having only two months left in 2026 to brag about his trophy, and then went on to thank “the original creator.”
“I would like to thank God, the original creator,” he said before humorously adding, “Lord, wala akong kinalaman dito. Binigay lang ‘to sa akin at tsaka, this year lang naman Lord. Ibabalik ko next year.”
Philip acknowledged the people who supported his journey, from his mother to his loyal followers who have watched his videos since he started creating content.
He also credited TikTok for opening doors for aspiring creators, saying that content creation is no longer limited to those with expensive equipment, impressive homes or picture-perfect backgrounds.
“Because of TikTok, parang dati akala namin na yung pwede lang mag-content is yung mga ma-artistahin, yung maganda yung bahay, maganda yung equipment,” he said.
He added that even creators whose backgrounds are simply a clothesline or a chicken coop can make content and bring happiness to others.
In a separate interview, Philip shared that what began as a passion eventually became a business, requiring commitment and consistency.
“Action creates the motivation,” he said, encouraging aspiring creators to start making content instead of waiting for inspiration. He acknowledged that there are days when ideas run dry, but stressed that creating content requires dedication.
Addressing the misconception that content creation is an easy job, he pointed out that every profession comes with its own challenges.
“Lahat naman ng trabaho mahirap, you just have to choose your heart,” he said.
Despite his growing popularity, he revealed that he has no immediate plans to enter mainstream entertainment, saying he enjoys the freedom and solitude of being a content creator.
Meanwhile, other creators also celebrated significant milestones at the ceremony.
Pau Pelaez, who won Beauty and Fashion Creator of the Year, shared how content creation transformed her life, revealing that after five years of creating videos, she was able to buy a house and a car.
Rising Creator of the Year Jericho Mark Asis, known for his viral “Sharmaine” content, named Davao Conyo as his inspiration for making online content.
The other winners at the TikTok Awards 2026 included Aeriel Jan Tolentino for TikTok Shop Creator of the Year, Ryssi Avila for TikTok LIVE Creator of the Year, Jomar Yee for Popular Video of the Year, Belle Rodolfo for Lifestyle Creator of the Year, Louise Anne Nagal (This Is Lans) for Education Creator of the Year, Juri Imao for Food Creator of the Year, Spencer Serafica for Entertainment Creator of the Year, and Margaux Nonato for Sports Creator of the Year.
With Davao Conyo leading the Philippine winners, the country is set to bring its creative talents to Bali, Indonesia, for the regional awards on Nov. 27.
Creators from six Southeast Asian countries will compete for regional honors, with TikTok Southeast Asia Content Operations general manager Angga Anugrah Putra highlighting their ability to reflect local communities, create economic opportunities and inspire positive social impact.
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