Dermorepubliq, TikTok Philippines’ leading science-based skincare brand, has secured a historic win at the 2026 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, taking home the Gold Stevie for its standout PR, influencer, and billboard campaign titled “The breakup that went viral by Dermorepubliq.”

The campaign was the sole Gold winner in the Innovation in the Use of Viral Media or Word of Mouth category, recognized for its creative use of stealth marketing in an increasingly saturated skincare market. The initiative was executed in partnership with PR agency Uniquecorn Strategies.

A Viral Campaign Built on Mystery and Science

Dermorepubliq’s campaign began with a cryptic, unbranded billboard that read:
“‘Wag na tayo mag break please. Love, D.”

The message quickly sparked nationwide curiosity, leveraging cultural conversations around breakups—later revealed as a clever reference to skin breakouts, the very concern the brand’s formulations address.

“Dermorepubliq was built on a simple but uncompromising belief: science-based skincare that works,” said Keith Sta. Barbara, CEO and Founder of Dermorepubliq. “This campaign brought that promise to life in a way that felt real to people before they even knew our name.”

Massive Reach and Earned Media Impact

The campaign was rolled out in two phases:

  • Tease Phase: Generated viral speculation, resulting in 42 earned media stories and over 60 million influencer video views
  • Reveal Phase: Confirmed the “breakup” was about “breakouts,” triggering an additional 43 earned media stories

Overall, the campaign achieved:

  • 200 million combined online reach
  • 100 million total video views
  • 93 earned media stories
  • Approximately USD 4.5 million in PR value

Strategic PR Execution

As Dermorepubliq’s PR partner, Uniquecorn Strategies managed the campaign narrative from curiosity to clarity.

“This recognition affirms that an effective PR strategy can transform a bold creative idea into a cultural moment,” said Dean Bernales, CEO and Founder of Uniquecorn Strategies. “We ensured the intrigue was matched with a clear narrative that resonated with both media and audiences.”

Competing with Industry Giants

Dermorepubliq’s win is particularly notable as it competed alongside major Philippine conglomerates such as SM Supermalls, Ayala Corporation, and San Miguel Corporation.

The Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards is one of the region’s most prestigious business award programs, recognizing innovation across industries through an independent judging panel.

From Digital-First to Mainstream Retail

The award also marks a turning point for Dermorepubliq as it expands beyond digital channels into mainstream retail.

Its products are now available at:

  • Watsons (online store and select physical branches across Metro Manila)
  • TikTok Shop
  • Shopee
  • Lazada
  • Official website: www.dermorepubliq.com

“When the public chooses to carry your story, it is the strongest proof that what you stand for resonates,” Sta. Barbara added. “This Gold Stevie award is both a milestone and a reminder of why we do what we do—to bring science-based skincare that truly performs to every Filipino.”