Prominent Filipino Figures in Silicon Valley
1. Dado Banatao
Often dubbed the “Bill Gates of the Philippines,” Dado Banatao is a pioneering engineer and entrepreneur. He developed the first system logic chipset for IBM PCs and co-founded several tech companies, including Chips & Technologies and S3 Graphics. Beyond his technical achievements, Banatao is the founder of PhilDev, a nonprofit organization that supports STEM education and entrepreneurship among Filipinos.
2. Anne Aaron
As the Director of Video Algorithms at Netflix, Anne Aaron leads the team responsible for optimizing video streaming quality. Her work ensures efficient delivery of high-quality video content to millions of users worldwide. Aaron’s contributions have been recognized by Forbes, naming her among “America’s Top 50 Women In Tech.”
3. Winston Damarillo
A serial entrepreneur and venture capitalist, Winston Damarillo has founded multiple tech companies, including Gluecode Software, which was acquired by IBM. He is also the founder of Talino Venture Labs and BayaniPay, focusing on financial solutions for Asian Americans. Damarillo actively mentors startups and advocates for inclusive innovation
4. Trisha Bantigue
CEO and Co-Founder of Queenly, Trisha Bantigue leads a startup that offers a marketplace for formalwear. Her platform addresses the need for accessible and sustainable options in the fashion industry. Bantigue’s journey from immigrant to tech entrepreneur exemplifies the growing presence of Filipinos in Silicon Valley’s startup ecosystem.
Community Initiatives and Support Networks
PhilDev (Philippine Development Foundation)
Founded by Dado Banatao, PhilDev aims to accelerate the development of the Philippines by nurturing science and technology education, innovation, and entrepreneurship. The organization offers scholarships, mentorship programs, and supports startups through various initiatives.
FASTER (Filipino Americans in Silicon Valley Tech)
FASTER is a community that connects Filipino-American professionals in the tech industry. Through events like FASTERCON, they provide networking opportunities, mentorship, and discussions on navigating the tech landscape as Filipino Americans.
Emerging Startups and Entrepreneurs
PayMongo
Co-founded by Filipino entrepreneurs, PayMongo is a fintech startup that provides online payment solutions for businesses in the Philippines. It gained international attention by being the first Filipino startup accepted into Y Combinator, a prestigious Silicon Valley accelerator.
Plentina
Led by CEO Kevin Gabayan, Plentina offers “buy now, pay later” services tailored for emerging markets. The fintech startup focuses on providing accessible credit solutions in the Philippines and has garnered support from Silicon Valley investors.
Broader Impact and Representation
Filipinos are increasingly represented in various roles within Silicon Valley, from engineers and product managers to executives and founders. Organizations like PhilDev and FASTER, along with individual trailblazers, are paving the way for greater inclusion and recognition of Filipino talent in the global tech arena.