The Philippines is emerging as a powerhouse in Southeast Asia, driven by bold innovation, resilient talent, and a digital-first mindset. From fintech and healthcare to edtech and outsourcing, the country is not just catching up — it’s setting new standards for inclusive growth and technological impact.
What makes this shift possible? It’s the visionaries behind the momentum. These Voices You Should Follow in the Philippines aren’t just executives or influencers — they’re trailblazers building the future in real time. Whether by transforming how millions manage money, scaling AI-enabled inclusion, or designing ecosystems that uplift entire industries, these 10 leaders embody influence in action.
They’re not loud for the sake of it. They’re visible because their work demands attention — and their insights are shaping decisions that matter. With deep engagement on LinkedIn and tangible achievements across sectors, each of them brings something distinct: credibility, consistency, and a commitment to impact.
Meet the voices changing the narrative of Filipino leadership, and see why they belong on your radar in 2025.
Highlights
Martha Sazon
Martha Sazon, President and CEO of GCash, has been instrumental in advancing financial inclusion in the Philippines through the country’s leading mobile wallet platform. With over 20 years of experience spanning finance, consumer goods, and telecommunications, she has driven GCash’s rapid expansion into payments, lending, and financial services.
Furthermore, under her leadership, GCash became the first duacorn in the Philippines and a staunch supporter of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Notably, she continues to champion innovation and customer-focused strategies, positioning GCash as a vital force for “Finance for All.”
Paolo F. Borromeo
Paolo Borromeo, President and CEO of Ayala Healthcare Holdings (AC Health), is leading a transformative mission to make healthcare more accessible to Filipinos. Previously a strategy consultant at Booz & Company, he now oversees Healthway Medical Network, Generika Drugstore, and other health institutions under Ayala.
Moreover, he chairs the Private Sector Advisory Council for Health and serves as a board member for the Philippine Cancer Society. With an MBA from Wharton, Paolo combines global expertise with local leadership, driving systemic improvements in the Philippine healthcare landscape.
Manny Rubio
Manny Rubio, President and CEO of Meralco PowerGen (MGEN), spearheads the country’s push toward a more sustainable and secure energy future. Drawing on decades of leadership in power generation, he oversees a diverse portfolio that spans renewables, LNG, and advanced energy solutions.
In addition, he has championed flagship projects like MTerra Solar, one of the Philippines’ largest renewable energy initiatives, set to deliver 850 MW of clean power by 2027. Consequently, his leadership reflects a commitment to powering economic growth while enabling a just and inclusive energy transition.
Jack Madrid
Jack Madrid, CEO of the IT & Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP), has been at the forefront of shaping the country’s global leadership in the IT-BPM industry. With a career spanning Citicorp, Ayala Corporation, Dell, Yahoo!, and MTV Asia, he brings three decades of corporate leadership and digital innovation.
Furthermore, under his guidance, IBPAP launched Roadmap 2028, which aims to generate $20 billion in revenue and 1 million new digital jobs. Beyond the boardroom, he is also a wine columnist, podcaster, and TV host, demonstrating his multifaceted approach to leadership and storytelling.
Lito Villanueva
Lito Villanueva, EVP and Chief Innovation & Inclusion Officer at RCBC, is a trailblazer in digital banking and financial inclusion in Asia. He has launched award-winning platforms such as DiskarTech, which deliver inclusive finance to underserved communities.
Additionally, as the Founding Chairman of Fintech Alliance.ph, he convenes over 130 fintech institutions, shaping frameworks for open finance, AI governance, and digital identity. Recently named Asia Trailblazer of the Year 2025, his accolades highlight a career dedicated to leveraging technology not just to transform banking but to transform lives.
Nicole Casperson
Nicole Casperson, Founder and CEO of Fintech Is Femme, is redefining fintech media by spotlighting women-led innovation and equity-centered growth. As a finance journalist, she has built a vibrant platform of 50,000+ subscribers, authored the bestselling book Fintech Feminists, and leads a growing portfolio of events and podcasts.
A Forbes contributor and professor at Parsons School of Design, Nicole empowers the next generation of fintech leaders with insights at the intersection of culture and commerce. Named among the Top 100 Women in Fintech, she continues to bridge storytelling, community, and impact with a bold, inclusive vision.
Dean Pax (Francisco) Lapid, PhD
Dean Pax Lapid, Chairman and CEO of IT-SPAC and AIOS.PH, is a celebrated entrepreneur, educator, and bestselling author whose career spans over two decades of championing enterprise development in the Philippines. Formerly with Shell, he successfully transitioned into building ventures in agribusiness, energy, and technology, while mentoring entrepreneurs nationwide.
Now in semi-retirement, Dean Pax has gracefully passed the business reins to a new generation of leaders. Yet, the “old stallion” still runs — with renewed fire for impact-driven advocacy.
Through AIOS.PH, he leads a mission to reshape the OFW narrative by empowering Filipino talent to thrive as digital professionals in the global marketplace — without leaving their families behind.
He also continues to serve as the Philippine Lead of the Founder Institute, guiding 20 high-potential tech startups with global aspirations. A prolific speaker on entrepreneurship, financial wellness, and family business succession, Dean Pax remains deeply committed to his personal ethos: “Better Jobs for Better Lives.” For him, a fulfilled life is one “full of meaning and filled with blessings.”
Gina Romero
Gina Romero, Founder and Head of Special Projects at Mettamatch, is a social entrepreneur dedicated to inclusive innovation and ethical AI. Despite early business failures, she turned setbacks into stepping stones, building Connected Women into a global community of 200,000 members.
In addition, her work at Mettamatch provides socially responsible AI data services while empowering underserved women with digital skills. A recipient of the TOWNS Award, Gina has been recognized globally for her advocacy in women’s empowerment, the future of work, and ethical technology.
Carmina Bayombong
Carmina Bayombong, Founder and CEO of InvestEd, has pioneered student success systems in the Philippines, reaching over 400,000 students with education loans and coaching. Her platform leverages AI to boost graduation and employability, achieving a 90% success rate in guiding youth toward meaningful careers.
Furthermore, she has raised $10 million in capital for impact ventures and has been honored with awards, including Forbes 30 Under 30, Cartier Women’s Initiative, and recognition from the Philippine Senate. As she scales InvestEd globally, Carmina continues to prove that youth empowerment and financial inclusion can go hand in hand.
Tonichi Achurra-Parekh
Tonichi Achurra-Parekh, Vice President at Concentrix, is an influential leader in the Philippine BPO industry with extensive expertise in operations and business process management. As a trustee of both IBPAP and the Contact Center Association of the Philippines, she plays a key role in shaping policies for the outsourcing sector.
Moreover, she has been recognized among the 100 Most Influential Filipino Women on LinkedIn for her thought leadership and community impact. With a career rooted in transformation and inclusion, Tonichi exemplifies the vital role of women leaders in the country’s most dynamic industry.
Final Thoughts: The Power of Influence in the Philippines
In a world where trust, transparency, and talent define influence, these leaders stand out not just for what they’ve done — but for what they continue to do. The Voices You Should Follow in the Philippines are helping define what the country stands for on the regional and global stage: innovation with purpose, leadership with empathy, and systems built for inclusion.
As AI reshapes jobs, fintech deepens access, and digital platforms redefine growth, these are the people lighting the way forward. Expect them to shape policies, launch bold ideas, and scale impact across industries — all while bringing their communities along.
So whether you’re an investor, policymaker, startup founder, or simply someone who believes in the power of voices to drive change, this is your watchlist for 2025.
Highlights
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