Philippines Photographer Wins GCCA Concrete In Life Global Photo Contest

KUALA LUMPUR, April 24 (Bernama) -- The Global Cement and Concrete Association (GCCA) has announced the winners of its Concrete in Life 2025/26 global photography competition, with photographer Celbert Palaganas of the Philippines winning the top US$10,000 Photo of the Year prize for “Pillars Across the Sea”. (US$1 = RM3.96)

Taken in Cebu City, the image captures green coastal plants in the foreground while the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway, the Philippines’ longest bridge, stretches across the horizon, contrasting nature and engineering.

“The spectacular images submitted this year show concrete’s positive impact on people’s lives all over the world,” said GCCA Chief Executive, Thomas Guillot in a statement.

Meanwhile, competition judge and Digital Camera World Content Director, Chris George praised the winning image’s composition and depth of field.

Four category winners were also announced, each receiving US$2,500. Ralph Emerson De Peralta won the Urban Concrete category for “Dubai Rising”, while Rafly Rinaldy won the Concrete Infrastructure category for “Hidden Connection”, featuring Jakarta’s MRT rail tunnel.

Naitao Li won the Concrete in Daily Life category for “Time and Space Travellers” in Harbin, China, while Marcel Van Balken won the Beauty and Design category for “Triangles” set in Antwerp, Belgium.

The public-voted People’s Vote prize, carrying a US$5,000 prize, went to Aung Chan Thar for “Rhythm on Concrete”, set in Hanoi, Vietnam.

Run by GCCA, the annual competition drew more than 20,000 entries from professional and amateur photographers, as well as smartphone users worldwide, highlighting how concrete supports modern life while also offering moments of beauty, creativity and human connection.

-- BERNAMA