FoundHer Summit: Biggest, Boldest Event Championing Filipina Founders to Unlock the Female-Led Economy

 

In the Philippines, a country known for its relative gender parity and supportive stance towards female empowerment, a movement is gaining ground in its vibrant startup ecosystem.

On October 14, 2025, over 500 founders and entrepreneurs, investors, startup ecosystem leader, and multi-sectoral allies and champions will gather in Manila for the FoundHer Summit, a full-day gathering that its organizers tout as the “biggest, boldest event championing Filipina founders to unlock the female-led economy.”

Organized by Imaginable Impact, an inclusion studio on a mission to close gender gaps for women in business and leadership, the FoundHer Summit builds on the earlier traction of FoundHer Forums held in Manila in October 2023 and March 2024, and other FoundHer events organized in 2025. In gathering the Philippines’s top startup leaders, the FoundHer Summit aims to make a loud, bold statement and a clear business case for the investibility of Filipina-led startups.

“The FoundHer Summit will make clearly visible what we have seen in data, and what we know from closed-door conversations and small discussions with investors and business leaders,” points out Niña Terol, Co-Founder and CEO of FoundHer by Imaginable Impact. “That Filipina founders are investible, bankable, and build healthy, sustainable businesses. They create positive outcomes for their customers, produce positive returns for their shareholders, and provide a tremendous multiplier impact on the economy and society.”

Terol, further, cites data from the World Bank, showing that closing gender gaps in employment and entrepreneurship could add up to $190 billion to the Philippine GDP from 2040 to 2050.

“It’s time for Filipina founders to step up from out of the shadows and shine,” Terol adds. “We’re building a bigger stage to show the tremendous impact of Filipina-led ventures here at the FoundHer Summit.”

Stellar speaker lineup

The FoundHer Summit speaker lineup is a veritable Who’s Who of Philippine startup leaders and champions. Headlining the event, to deliver the welcome remarks during the morning segment, is Senator Bam Aquino, the principal author and principal author of the Innovative Startup Act (Republic Act No. 11337)—himself a champion of women entrepreneurs and inclusive growth prior to becoming a senator. Jojo Malolos (PayMongo CEO, Sinigang Valley Association Trustee, and angel investor) will give the Investor’s Keynote on why now is the perfect time to invest in the Filipina founder and unlock the female-led economy.

The morning’s host and other speakers include Sarah Perez (Plug and Play APAC); Terol and her FoundHer co-founder, Candice Quimpo; followed by a Women Investors panel featuring Catrina Magsadia (Foxmont Capital Partners), Fatima dela Cruz (Qatalyst Ventures), Rowena Reyes (Sweef Capital), and Tina Di Cicco (Kerubin Capital). 

The morning will be capped off by an Investor Allyship panel featuring Conrad de Jesus (Investing in Women), Joan Yao (Kickstart Ventures), Patch Dulay (The Spark Project), Paulo Campos (Kaya Founders), and Priya Thachadi (Villgro Philippines).

Quimpo explains, “We’ve carefully curated our speaker lineup to demonstrate that real change happens when the whole ecosystem is involved and engaged. At the FoundHer Summit, we’re spotlighting women investors and founders who are reframing the investibility narrative for Filipinas in startups. And, we’re amplifying the voices of mission-aligned allies who believe in closing the gender gap. Because driving progress isn’t a solo act; it’s a collective movement.”

Empowering program for women leaders and entrepreneurs

The afternoon will feature sessions, themed “Lead Like a Girl”, that aim to accelerate the business growth of female founders with founder-driven insights, stories, masterclasses, and empowering workshops.

The host and speakers include: Szachi Ducusin (QBO Innovation); Ina Flores, Founder and CEO of HeyRoomie, delivering a FoundHer Story on “Girl Power: Activated - Pivots and Breakthroughs”, followed by FoundHer Masterclasses on “Building a Women-Centered Marketplace” by Claire Ongcangco, Founder and CEO of Parlon; and “Feminine Leadership and Serial Entrepreneurship” by Crystal Lee-Gonzalez, CEO and Founder of nōna. 

There are also FoundHer Workshops on “Periods and Productivity”, led by Jessica de Mesa-Lim, Co-Founder and CEO of Kindred; and “Presence and Influence” by Ceej-Tantengco-Malolos, Founder of Go Hard Girls. 

“For women to thrive as leaders, we need to support and empower them holistically. A founder’s investibility isn’t just about strengthening skills in business and leadership. It’s also about mastering the self, which includes building confidence, deepening self-awareness, and understanding one’s own biology,” Quimpo shares.

Exclusive investor access

A highlight of the FoundHer Summit is the Investor Mentoring Sessions segment, which offers rare and valuable investor access to an exclusive session for FoundHer Access Members and FoundHer partners’ guests.

Here, delegates will participate in two roundtable discussions each with investor-mentors who will share expert-based insights on fundraising, business growth and scale, go-to-market strategies, startup culture-building, and other topics critical to the growth, investibility, and success of female-led ventures.

Over a dozen investor-mentors will participate from firms and networks such as AHG Lab, Brainsparks, Bullet Day Consulting, Endeavor Philippines, Far East Venture Credit, Findicate Angels, Foxmont Capital Partners, Gentree Fund, Gobi Partners, IdeaSpace Ventures, Kerubin Capital, Kickstart Ventures, KVG Ventures, Manila Angel Investors Network (MAIN), Quest Ventures, Sinigang Valley Association, and Sweef Capital, among others.

The session will be facilitated by Ron Baetiong, founder and CEO of Podcast Network Asia, and will also feature an Investor Masterclass to be led by Andre Yap of Ignite House of Innovation and the co-founder of the 100x Fellows Program.

“Our Investor Mentoring sessions give female founders a meaningful opportunity to connect with investors early in their journey,” Quimpo shares. “We recognize the gender capital gap in our ecosystem, and one way we address this is by creating safe, welcoming spaces for authentic engagement. Here, investors will serve as guides and mentors, helping build understanding, trust, and the confidence founders need to take bold steps forward. Through these open conversations and genuine connections, new opportunities can take shape for everyone involved.”

FoundHer Fair: A community experience for female founders

The FoundHer Summit also showcases partner-led experiences and special offers to demonstrate how women collaborate to support each other. A community lounge set up by The Company Manila, featuring OMO Furniture by Milo Naval, will be available for delegates to network and chill apart from the conference sessions, while Kindred will provide discounts to women’s healthcare services such as consults, vaccines, ultrasounds, IV drips, and the like. Go Hard Girls will be showcasing “Pinay Power” through postcards, posters, and other lifestyle products inspired by the achievements of Filipina athletes. Additional products, merchandise, and services will be available from Antonina, HOPE, and other partners.

Behind the FoundHer Summit 2025 is a network of support from across the startup ecosystem. The event is co-presented by Imaginable Impact, SPACE at One Ayala, and OMO Furniture and Home Living Designs; in partnership with The Company Manila, Kindred, Go Hard Girls, Ticketnation, HOPE, Butterboy, Modern Ads and Promo, Antonina, Parlon X Marqed, Candid Coffee, Cocopan, Dumbo Coffee, Hey Lucky Café, Tomoro Coffee, Zus Coffee, San Miguel Corporation, Rebisco, Project Vino, Quantity Solutions, Inc., VRITIMES, LIKED, and PLDT.

“If you’re a female founder—or an ally who wants to see women entrepreneurs succeed and thrive— and if you’ve been looking for her tribe of kindred spirits, bold dreamers, and ambitious achievers, this is where you need to be,” Terol says. “The FoundHer Summit recognizes and celebrates feminine impact and leadership, and we’re here with a network of partners, investors, fellow founders, and leaders to lift everyone up. When women thrive, everyone wins.”

FoundHer Summit 2025 happens on October 14, 2025, 9AM to 6PM at SPACE at One Ayala. For information and ticket registration, visit https://www.foundher.ph/.

About SparkImpact OPC (Imaginable Impact)

Imaginable Impact is co-creating a world where Filipinas thrive. We activate the power of the female lens in growing a more vibrant and equitable economy, so we can close the gender gap in leadership, especially among entrepreneurs and startup founders. Learn more at ImaginableImpact.com. FoundHer by Imaginable Impact is a community, a platform, and a movement championing Filipina founders to unlock the female-led economy. Learn more at FoundHer.ph.

 

This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES

Turn API Knowledge into Industry Power – Join PetroSync Now

 

While You’re Waiting, Your Competitors Are Winning

Imagine this: while you're still considering your next move, your competitors are already investing in their teams—getting them certified, updated, and trained on critical API standards. They’re not just sitting back; they’re leveling up. And what does that mean for you?

It means they're ahead. They're becoming the safer, faster, more trusted option in the eyes of clients and regulators. In a landscape where every decision can affect millions in revenue or reputation, being second is not an option. If your team isn’t up-to-date on API standards, they’re not just behind—they’re vulnerable.

That’s why PetroSync offers cutting-edge programs like the API 653 training, specifically tailored for professionals responsible for storage tank integrity. Equip your team now—or risk watching the opportunity pass to someone else.

Don’t Let Outdated Knowledge Cost You the Contract

Global standards change. Asset integrity requirements evolve. And the contracts you want? They're increasingly awarded to teams that know the latest API protocols—not those who "plan to learn them."

Without certified expertise, it’s easy to overlook crucial damage mechanisms or fail inspections that delay projects. These delays cost money. Worse, they cost trust. Clients and stakeholders expect assurance—not excuses.

Courses like our API 571 training help your team stay ahead of equipment failures and inspection risks by mastering the science behind degradation. Because in today's market, knowledge isn't power—applied knowledge is.

Operational Inefficiency Is an Invitation to Be Replaced

Companies that neglect training often find themselves overwhelmed by preventable downtime, inspection failures, and unexpected shutdowns. It’s not just about compliance—it’s about competitiveness.

Studies have shown that companies leveraging structured technical training see:

21% higher productivity19% greater operational efficiencyAnd up to 15% cost savings—especially when integrating AI and automated inspection systems alongside well-trained personnel.

When teams are certified through programs like API 570 training for piping inspectors or API 510 training for pressure vessels, they don’t just follow—they lead.

You Can’t Afford to Fall Behind—Train Smarter, Compete Harder

The oil & gas and petrochemical industries are transforming rapidly. Clients expect better. Regulators demand more. And the window to stay ahead is getting smaller by the day.

PetroSync doesn’t just train your team—we elevate your company’s reputation. Our API programs are led by seasoned experts, tailored to your region’s needs, and designed to make sure your team doesn’t just pass the exam—they master the material.

If you want your business to thrive—not just survive—it’s time to invest in what truly matters: your people’s expertise.

About PetroSync Global Internasional

PetroSync was established in Singapore in 2010 and began its expansion into Indonesia in 2013. To this day, PetroSync has become a leading oil and gas training provider, with a participant passing rate as high as 90%.

 

This press release has also been published in VRITIMES

Single Mom Fired From First Job Now Serves Global B2B Clients as an Award-Winning SEO Strategist

 

Her journey began with a modest ₱10,000/month SEO gig from which she was fired due to inexperience. Instead of giving up, she used the failure as motivation, dedicating herself to mastering results-oriented B2B SEO and PPC strategies. She is now recognized as one of the best female PPC Strategists in the Philippines, with expertise in Google Ads and Meta Ads. Her success was officially recognized when she was named the "Best SEO & Digital Marketer for SMEs in the Philippines." Building on her expertise, she co-authored the book "Degree Didn't Define Us" with her mentor, Jin Grey, to inspire others. Today, Nanette is a globally sought-after B2B SEO and Paid Ads Strategist, serving clients worldwide from her home in the Philippines.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

From Fired Novice to Global Force: Filipina Strategist Disrupts B2B Digital Marketing

MANILA, Philippines – October 5, 2025 – Nanette Montenegro, a leading B2B SEO and Paid Ads Strategist, is expanding her globally recognized digital marketing services. Now celebrated as one of the best female PPC Strategists in the Philippines, Montenegro is extending her results-oriented approach to clients across the USA, Canada, Australia, Europe, and Southeast Asia, marking a new chapter in her remarkable success story.

Her journey from a local freelancer to an international powerhouse is a testament to her expertise. After an early career setback, Montenegro committed to mastering the digital landscape, building a formidable reputation for her results oriented PPC and SEO strategies. Her proficiency in Google Ads and Meta Ads has been a key driver of her success, allowing her to deliver comprehensive campaigns that yield measurable ROI for a diverse B2B clientele.

“My focus has always been on delivering tangible outcomes,” says Nanette Montenegro. “Effective SEO builds the organic foundation, while strategic PPC amplifies reach and accelerates growth. This dual approach is critical for B2B success in today’s market.”

Recently crowned the Best SEO & Digital Marketer for SMEs in the Philippines, Montenegro’s data-driven methods have set a new standard in the industry. Her ability to craft bespoke strategies for the tech, finance, and SaaS sectors has made her a sought-after partner for businesses aiming to scale globally.

Further cementing her influence, Montenegro co-authored the inspirational book “Degree Didn’t Define Us” with her esteemed mentor, Jin Grey. The book chronicles unconventional paths to success in the digital age, a theme that mirrors Montenegro’s own journey. This collaboration highlights her evolution from a dedicated student of the industry to a respected leader and author.

As a dedicated PPC Strategist in the Philippines with a global vision, Nanette’s expansion is poised to help more businesses navigate the complexities of online advertising and search engine optimization.

About Nanette Montenegro: Nanette Montenegro is a premier B2B SEO and Paid Ads Strategist known for her innovative and results-oriented campaigns. As one of the top female PPC Strategists in the Philippines, she offers a full suite of digital marketing services, including advanced strategies for Google Ads, Meta Ads, and organic search. She partners with B2B businesses worldwide to drive growth, enhance visibility, and maximize ROI.

Featured on CEO Stories, Medium PublicationNanette Montenegro: Mastering B2B SEO & Paid Ads While at Home

Contact: Nanette Montenegro

Email: nettedigitals01@gmail.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nanette-montenegro/ 

Facebook: Nanette Montenegro

This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES

San Pablo women revitalize herbal medicine to lure tourists

  

San Pablo, Laguna- Unknown to many, a group of women living in the communities at the seven lakes of San Pablo, Laguna have revitalized the use of herbal medicine to lure tourists.

Marilyn Maghirang said that she has been advocating the use of herbal medicine throughout her life. She said that the use of herbal medicine has been inculcated to her by her ancestors.

Herbal medicine involves using plants for their therapeutic properties to maintain or improve health. It is a form of ancient medicine practiced worldwide. However, because of the current advances in technology in medicine and with the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) , the practice of traditional medicine has been forgotten mostly in cities.

But for Maghirang, she said that most of the medicines came from plants and have helped their communities use them generally for first aid. She said that herbal medicines are abundant in their communities.

"Many of us use herbal medicines to survive the COVID-19 pandemic," she added.

Among those that Magharing showcases are plants such as malunggay, ginger, among others.

She presents how to use these organic plants for tourists visiting the famous seven lakes of San Pablo, Laguna.

The seven lakes of San Pablo include Bunot Lake, Calibato Lake, Mohicap Lake, Palakpakin Lake, Pandin Lake, and Yambo Lake.

The women of San Pablo in Laguna are being supported by Hijos Tours, a tourism program of the CARD MRI.

CARD MRI, a group of 25 mutually reinforcing institutions, has been dedicated to poverty eradication through financial, non-financial, and social development initiatives since 1986. The organization is serving more than 9.1 million clients nationwide as of October 2023.

This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES