GOAB Mixers in Makati & Cebu Spotlight Emerging Startup Opportunities at PHSW 2025

Following the success of the Geeks On A Beach (#GOAB) conference last October 2025 in Mactan, Cebu, GOAB is excited to bring together founders, investors, and innovators once again. This time, the gathering will take the form of two intimate community mixers in Makati City and Mandaue City, Cebu, as part of Philippine Startup Week 2025 (PHSW25). In partnership with Zero-Ten Park Philippines, the GOAB Reunion & Networking Mixers aim to enhance the conversations, connections, and opportunities sparked during the flagship event.

“We’re coming straight off a fantastic GOAB conference where you could really feel the optimism in the room,” said Tina Amper, GOAB Lead Organizer. “People were energized with founders pitching new ideas, investors asking sharper questions, and communities reconnecting after years of fragmented engagement. These mixers are about keeping that spark alive in two of the country’s leading business districts,” said Amper.

Despite structural challenges such as limited infrastructure, a lack of diverse funding sources, and regulatory obstacles, the Philippines is emerging as one of the fastest-growing startup hubs in the world. According to the 2024 Global Startup Ecosystem Report, tech startup valuations have surged from USD 3.5 billion to USD 6.4 billion. Additionally, regional innovation centers are emerging in urban areas such as Metro Iloilo and Metro Bacolod, as both local and international investors show keen interest in the country’s startup sector.

GOAB’s mixers are designed to leverage current momentum by creating trustworthy, valuable spaces where ideas and collaborations can thrive. Amper pointed out that new ventures are emerging, regional founders are becoming more involved, and industry leaders are eager to support the next generation. “There’s a lot of quiet yet significant progress taking place. Innovation occurs when people communicate—and communicate honestly. That’s the purpose of these mixers,” she said.

The first mixer event will be held on November 12, 2025, at Zero-Ten Park in Makati, located within the Frabelle Business Center on Rada Street, Legazpi Village. The event will take place from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. The Cebu edition will follow on November 15, 2025, at Zero-Ten Park in Cebu, specifically at JDN Square on P. Remedio Street. This event is scheduled from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Interested participants can register via Luma.

 

Attendees can look forward to hearing founder stories, participating in rapid networking sessions, and enjoying a relaxed atmosphere that embodies GOAB’s signature culture — laid-back, bright, and full of heart. Zero-Ten Park Philippines will provide refreshments and host collaborative spaces where participants can engage and build connections. Each mixer is limited to 50 seats to ensure that conversations remain focused and meaningful.

“These events are more than just networking opportunities, but also a vision of the future. Here you’ll meet individuals launching new companies, experimenting with innovative ideas, taking risks, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the Philippines. It’s an exciting time to be involved in this community,” said Amper.

Early registration is encouraged; waitlists will be available for both Makati and Cebu once slots are filled.