The prestigious Iligan Business Awards 2024 took place on October 30, 2024, at The Orchard in Bara-as, Tubod, honoring businesses and individuals who have significantly contributed to Iligan’s economic growth. Among the standouts was Rene Leandro Padilla, founder of MalachiSoft.com and PinoySEO, who was awarded the Outstanding Digital Freelancer of the Year in the ICTC Category. However, Leandro could not attend the ceremony, and his mother, Renefe Padilla, and brother, Karl Padilla, once of PinoySEO coaches, received the award on his behalf.

Leandro’s journey began with the launch of MalachiSoft in 2018, offering web design services. In August 2022, he expanded his efforts into SEO education by founding PinoySEO, an online platform providing free SEO training videos. Just four months later, in December 2022, Leandro launched his first paid course, the 4-Week Online SEO Bootcamp, which has empowered countless digital freelancers across the country.

Most recently, in July 2024, Leandro co-founded SOVA (School of Virtual Assistance) with his wife, Katherine Padilla, a Cebu-based training institution aimed at teaching individuals the skills necessary to become successful virtual assistants. This latest venture continues Leandro’s passion for education and digital empowerment.

In addition to his educational platforms, Leandro leads the Promote Iligan project through MalachiSoft, which helps local businesses boost their online presence through web design and SEO services. His tireless efforts in both the local business community and the digital space make him a true leader, recognized with this prestigious award.