Early Life and Education
Born on April 15, 1981, in Quezon City, Philippines, Herbert D. Hernandez displayed an early interest in both music and mathematics. At just nine years old, he learned to play the guitar under the guidance of his brother, Darwin Hernandez. His mathematical skills were equally impressive, leading him to represent Rizal in the Math Olympiad during high school. Additionally, he served as the president of St. Matthew’s Academy’s student council and received notable accolades such as the Gerry Roxas Leadership Award and the Juan Luna Award for Outstanding Artist of the Batch.
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Continuing his academic journey, Herbert Hernandez was elected president of the College of Fine Arts and Design’s student council at the University of Santo Tomas (UST), where he also co-founded Moonstar88 in 1999. He graduated with honors in 2002, earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Advertising. His excellence in academics and leadership was recognized with prestigious awards, including the UST Rector’s Award, the UST Quezon Leadership Award, and the San Mateo Rizal Youth Achievement Award in 2001.
Career in Advertising
Following his graduation, Hernandez embarked on a successful career in advertising. He began as an Art Director at J. Walter Thompson Manila in February 2003, contributing to major campaigns for Red Horse Musiklaban, Ford, and Lipton. From 2006 to 2012, he worked as a Creative Director at DM9JaymeSyfu, leading projects for Tanduay Ice, Smart Telecom, and the Department of Health. He then served as the Executive Creative Director at Young & Rubicam, Manila from 2012 to 2017, overseeing creative campaigns for SMART Telecom, Caltex, and Ford Philippines.
In 2017, Hernandez took a significant step in his career by founding GIGIL Advertising Group Inc. Within just five years, the company garnered over 180 local and international awards, earning prestigious titles such as Campaign Philippines Independent Agency of the Year and Creative Agency of the Year (2020). GIGIL also gained international recognition when AdAge named it the International Small Agency of the Year (2021). Under his leadership, GIGIL has delivered standout campaigns for 7-Eleven, Netflix, Jollibee, Levi’s, and Unilever.
Music Career
Beyond advertising, Hernandez is a highly regarded guitarist and songwriter. He is a founding member of Moonstar88, a well-known Filipino band that has released four studio albums: Popcorn, Press to Play, Todo Combo, and This Year. One of the band’s most popular songs, “Migraine,” has surpassed 100 million streams on Spotify.
Additionally, he is a guitarist for 6cyclemind, contributing to the production of their album Goodbye Sunday. His contributions to the local music industry have solidified his reputation as an influential figure in the Philippine music scene.
Awards and Recognitions
Herbert Hernandez has received numerous accolades for his contributions to advertising and music, including:
- “The Most Inspiring Talents of 2021” by Adweek’s Creative 100
- “40 Under 40” by Campaign Asia (2020)
- Creative Agency of the Year by Campaign Asia (2020) – for GIGIL Advertising
- Multiple nominations and awards from Cannes, One Show, AWARD Awards, The Clios, ADFEST, APAC Effies, LIA, AD Stars, and Spikes Asia for his innovative campaigns
Professional and Community Involvement
Hernandez is an active member of various industry organizations, including the Creative Guild of the Philippines, IMMAP, and the Filipino Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers, Inc. (FILSCAP). He also serves as an ambassador for the Hero Foundation, supporting educational opportunities for the children of fallen soldiers.
Personal Life
Currently residing in Manila, Philippines, Herbert Hernandez is married to Heidi Borja Hernandez, a beauty queen, makeup artist, and commercial model.
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With a remarkable career spanning advertising, music, and leadership, Herbert Hernandez continues to make a lasting impact in multiple creative fields.