José Aníbal Aguirre expressed his gratitude to the Colombian Society of Press and Media for the recognition received. He especially thanked Fecoljuegos, the Colombian Federation of Gaming Entrepreneurs, and its president Evert Montero Cardenas, and also to his entire team at GAT EXPO; highlighting that without their support and leadership, it would not have been possible to reach this milestone. “This award honours me and motivates me to continue contributing with our work to the country and our sector,” said Aguirre.

The SCP highlighted the work that José Aníbal has been doing in the legal gaming sector in Latin America for more than two decades. His career began in the Cali Mayor's Office, where he organised environmental activities and achieved a Guinness World Record with the ‘World's Largest Plantation’. Subsequently, he founded the Andean Gaming Fair (FADJA), which evolved into GAT EXPO, the most relevant gaming fair in Latin America.

In relation to the GAT EXPO show, it has been instrumental in attracting international investors and exhibitors, fostering a climate of confidence and growth in the gaming sector in Colombia and beyond. The show has not only strengthened the casino market, but has also driven the advancement of online exhibitors and new content in the entertainment sector.

This year, the goal was set to expand the reach of the events to the Dominican Republic and Mexico, reaffirming its commitment to building legal gaming in the Americas. These events will continue to have a significant academic component, reflecting José Aníbal Aguirre's vision of an informed and regulated sector.

The recognition that the SCP awarded him with the Order of Law and Democracy, Grand Cross Degree, is a testament to the positive impact of Aguirre and his team on the gaming industry, and an incentive to continue working for the growth and legality of the sector.