Balik*Bayan LA 2024: A Milestone Event for Filipino Innovators and Entrepreneurs
Los Angeles, CA – June 18, 2024:
Endeavor Philippines proudly hosted Balik*Bayan LA 2024, an event that brought together Filipino founders, investors, ecosystem builders, and creatives for a day of networking, learning, and inspiration. Held at the Silicon Valley Bank office in Santa Monica, CA, this year’s event highlighted the thriving startup ecosystem in the Philippines and emphasized the role of the Filipino diaspora in driving this growth.
Balik*Bayan LA 2024 featured a series of insightful sessions, including a fireside chat with “Sea Turtles”—Filipinos who have returned to support and nurture the startup ecosystem back home. Attendees discovered why Southeast Asia, particularly the Philippines, is emerging as a hotspot for business growth amidst the global economic landscape.
Event Highlights:
- Opening Remarks: Delivered by Consul Maynar Maleon and Trade Commissioner Eric Elnar from the Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles, setting an inspiring tone for the event.
- Fireside Chat: Andrea Barrica of Mahway and Audie Vergara of APL Foundation shared their journeys and insights, demonstrating the various paths through which the Filipino diaspora can contribute to the homeland.
- Discussion on Why the PH is Hot: Endeavor Philippines Managing Director Manny Ayala led a compelling discussion on the Philippines’ potential and why it is a prime location for business growth.
The event saw participation from notable organizations such as FYLPRO, the Consulate of the Philippines, Silicon Valley Bank, and Apl.de.Ap of the Apl.de.Ap Foundation. These key attendees underscored the event’s importance and the collaborative spirit that drives the Filipino entrepreneurial community.
With over 60 participants from diverse fields including technology, media, entertainment, and food & beverage, Balik*Bayan LA 2024 was a melting pot of ideas and opportunities. Attendees left inspired, having forged new connections that could lead to innovative collaborations and ventures.
Ayala remarked on the significance of the event, stating, “The Philippines is at an inflection point for growth – and it is the best time for Filipinos to come home to support this growth. There are BalikBayans that have led the charge over the past decade – including Rexy Dorado of Kumu, Dexter Gordon Ligot of Swarm, and Diego Lorenzo of Pickup Coffee. As proven by our guests Andrea Barrica of Mahway and Audie Vergara of the Apl.de.Ap Foundation, there is always an opportunity to support the homeland regardless of the stage of your career. The paths forward include becoming a Founder, a Funder, a Mentor, or Talent.”
Balik*Bayan LA 2024 was made possible with the support of Andrea Barrica, The Apl.de.Ap Foundation, FYLPRO, and Silicon Valley Bank, a global partner of Endeavor. This event serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Filipino entrepreneurial community and its commitment to fostering innovation and growth both locally and globally.