The Philippine Consulate General and the Philippine Trade and Investment Center in New York, in partnership with Endeavor Philippines, hosted Balik*Bayan NY 2025 on December 3, 2025. The event, held at the Philippine Center, marked the first time the initiative was hosted in New York and represents the largest Balik#Bayan gathering to date, following previous editions in Singapore, San Francisco, and Los Angeles.
The program took place during Endeavor Week, a period when the organization’s global community convenes in New York. The initiative is designed to mobilize the Filipino diaspora and establish connections between U.S.-based professionals and high-growth entrepreneurs in the Philippines.
In a video message, Consul General Senen T. Mangalile outlined three primary objectives for the gathering: facilitating connections between U.S.-based investors and mentors and Philippine entrepreneurs; highlighting opportunities for engagement as founders or investors within the local ecosystem; and encouraging actions that translate dialogue into economic impact.
Manny Ayala, Managing Director of Endeavor Philippines and Regional Managing Director of Endeavor Asia, provided insights into Endeavor’s “pay-it-forward” culture and the “multiplier effect.” This framework describes how successful entrepreneurs reinvest their experience, capital, and networks to assist other founders in scaling their businesses.
The event featured a panel discussion with Mikaela Reyes, Founder and CEO of Parallax, and Jaime Deverall, Co-Founder and CTO of Flychain. The panel explored how members of the Filipino diaspora – often referred to as “sea turtles” – can support the Philippine startup ecosystem through mentorship, investment, and active participation.
Reinforcing the event’s focus on community and identity, Broadway Barkada’s Emily Borromeo and Renee Albulario provided a cultural performance. The gathering was supported by Jollibee and Hotel 101, highlighting the role of diaspora engagement in driving inclusive economic growth and global competitiveness for the Philippines.