Filipinnovation: Pinoys turn passion into profit

New York — From the kitchen to the boardroom, Filipino entrepreneurs proved they’ve got what it takes to conquer the U.S. business scene at the third installment of the Filipinnovation Series held at the Philippine Center in New York.

The event, dubbed “The Juan Guide to Business: Filipinnovation—From Vision to Six Figures,” gathered some of the brightest Filipino-American innovators who shared how they turned bold ideas into thriving ventures.

Consul General Senen Mangalile fired up the crowd in his opening remarks, challenging dreamers to dig deep and find their hugot—their “why.” “If you’ve been waiting for the right moment, now could be the best time to start,” he said.

The spotlight then turned to Chef Chris Mauricio, James Beard Award finalist and co-owner of Harana Market, who drew laughs and applause while recalling their Lola’s timeless cooking wisdom: Halo, Tikim, Tantcha-tantcha (Mix, Taste, Adjust). “That’s not just my recipe in the kitchen—it’s my recipe for life and business,” Mauricio shared.

The energy kicked up another notch during a panel moderated by Ramon Vinluan of LinkedIn, featuring Marty Austria(UP TOP), Edil Cuepo (Pickle Media Co.), Jozelle Diaz (Revivaluxe), and Carol Avila (Finance Consultant). From passion projects to profit, each panelist revealed how hustle, heart, and community helped them succeed.

Wrapping up the night, Trade Commissioner Alma Argayoso proudly declared that the myth of Filipinos not being entrepreneurs is officially dead. “Research shows Filipinos are naturally entrepreneurial,” she said, pointing out that the Philippine startup ecosystem has already grown to a whopping $3.5 billion. She added that more opportunities are opening up for Filipino businesses in the U.S., ASEAN, and beyond.

With inspiration, networking, and a whole lot of Pinoy pride, the Filipinnovation Series once again proved that when it comes to business, Filipinos are not just keeping up—they’re leading the way.