Geeks on a Beach (GOAB) 2025 takes place from October 1 to 3 in Mactan, Cebu. This premier tech and startup conference will focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and the global mobility of Filipino tech talent. One inspiring story is that of Jose Rey Jr. Salvio, a software engineer from Cebu, whose journey to Austria exemplifies how world-class skills can open doors to international opportunities.
Salvio is a graduate of the University of the Philippines Cebu and has built a successful career in software engineering, accumulating a decade of experience in full-stack development. Like many Filipino professionals, his work is deeply rooted in Cebu’s thriving IT ecosystem. However, upon discovering the Austrian Business Agency (ABA) and its talent hub, he recognized an opportunity to achieve career growth while also securing a better life for his family.
“Austria offers a high quality of life, particularly for families,” Salvio shared. “I am very happy about the current working conditions, such as the work-life balance, having 40 hours workweek and being able to take half of Friday off. Overtime is also frowned upon,” he added.
Salvio connected with Beyond Now, a European software solutions company, through ABA. His relocation journey presented challenges, such as navigating the Philippine government's regulations against direct hiring and coordinating with POLO Milan. However, he found the process to be well-supported. “ABA was there every step of the way, answering my questions, guiding me through the paperwork, and providing resources to make the transition smoother,” he said.
Currently residing in Austria with his wife and three children, Salvio remains actively connected to Cebu's startup community. “I shared information about GOAB with my contacts at ABA because I've heard nothing but positive feedback about it from people back home,” he explains.
GOAB lead organizer Tina Amper views Salvio’s story as a representation of the event’s spirit. “Our ecosystem is maturing—it's not just about producing startups that scale globally, but also about nurturing talent that flourishes in international hubs. GOAB is a celebration of these journeys and an opportunity to strengthen the connections between local innovation and global possibilities,” said Amper.
With speakers, investors, and partners arriving from around the world, GOAB 2025 will highlight how Cebu and the Philippines continue to play a crucial role in the global tech landscape.
About the Austrian Business Agency (ABA)
The Austrian Business Agency (ABA) is a subsidiary of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Economy (BMAW). It promotes Austria as an attractive destination for international companies, skilled workers, and film producers. Through its three business divisions—INVEST in AUSTRIA, WORK in AUSTRIA, and FILM in AUSTRIA—the ABA provides free advisory services on establishing businesses, accessing the labor market, and producing films in Austria.
For further details, visit: www.aba.gv.at.