PH Consulate Hosts Balik*Bayan San Francisco Forum to Strengthen Diaspora Engagement in Innovation
Participants gather for a group photo following the event. (San Francisco PCG photo)
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – The Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco and Endeavor Philippines successfully convened the “Balik*Bayan San Francisco” Roundtable and Forum on 06 April 2026 at the Philippine Center, bringing together over fifty (50) participants from the Filipino diaspora, private sector, and the broader innovation community.
The event forms part of ongoing efforts to deepen engagement with overseas Filipinos and harness their expertise, networks and resources in support of the Philippines’ growing innovation ecosystem. In her welcome remarks, Deputy Consul General Maria Paz Cortes underscored the importance of collaboration among government, private sector partners, and Filipino entrepreneurs. She highlighted the critical role of the National Innovation Council in aligning policies, addressing structural challenges, and promoting inclusive growth through innovation. She also emphasized the valuable contribution of Filipinos abroad, noting their strong interest in supporting national development.
Left photo: Deputy Consul General Maria Paz G. Cortes delivers the welcome remarks. Center and right photos: Ms. Famida Alonto and Mr. Earl Martin Valencia engage in discussion during the forum. (San Francisco PCG photos)
The forum featured presentations on global innovation ecosystems and the Philippines’ innovation priorities by National Innovation Council Executive Members Ms. Fam Alonto and Mr. Earl Martin Valencia.
Science and Technology Advisory Council (STAC)-Silicon Valley President Kendrick Geluz Kho (left) moderates a panel discussion featuring Ms. Fam Alonto (center) and Mr. Earl Martin Valencia (right). (San Francisco PCG photo)
The speakers also underscored the importance of building a “multiplier effect,” where experienced entrepreneurs and investors actively support and mentor emerging founders, helping to strengthen and scale the innovation ecosystem. Organizations such as Endeavor Philippines were cited for fostering this culture among high-impact entrepreneurs.
Nomsi® CEO Victor Elizaga sponsors the event’s refreshments.
The event concluded with a call for continued engagement among government, private sector, and diaspora stakeholders to advance innovation-driven growth and strengthen linkages between the Philippines and Filipino communities abroad. END