G.I.V.E. PH Launches Global Entrepreneurial Ecosystem, Signs Strategic Alliance with GE1% Club Philippines

A new chapter in Philippine entrepreneurship began as the Global Initiative in Venture Entrepreneurship Philippines (G.I.V.E. PH) officially launched and signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Global Entrepreneurs 1% Club (GE1% Club) Philippines Chapter, headquartered in Cambodia, during a formal ceremony held on May 27, 2027, at the Triton Grand Ballroom of JPark Island Resort & Waterpark, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, Philippines.

The event gathered nearly 50 entrepreneurs, business owners, professionals, investors, corporate executives, and ecosystem builders united by a common vision: creating stronger pathways for innovation, collaboration, and global business opportunities for Filipino entrepreneurs.

At the heart of the launch was a powerful message—entrepreneurship thrives not through competition alone, but through meaningful collaboration.

“The future belongs to those who know how to work together,” said Engr. Jill P. Heng, President of GE1% Club Philippines Chapter.

“What sets G.I.V.E. PH apart is that we are not simply building a network—we are building an ecosystem. We bring together people from different industries and backgrounds who can create opportunities, build ventures, and develop entirely new industries through collaboration,” Heng said.

She emphasized that in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, entrepreneurs must move beyond the mindset of competition and learn to maximize each other’s strengths.

“We may be excellent in one field, but together we become even better. No matter how smart we are, none of us knows everything. True growth begins when we humble ourselves, learn from one another, and work as a team,” she added.

Building Bridges Beyond Borders

The launch formally introduced G.I.V.E. PH as a non-stock, non-profit, non-government, and non-political organization designed to serve as a nationally rooted and globally connected entrepreneurial ecosystem platform.

Its mission is to create meaningful opportunities for entrepreneurs through innovation, mentorship, strategic partnerships, venture development, and international collaboration.

A defining feature of the organization is BRIDGE, its flagship global connectivity platform that aims to connect Filipino entrepreneurs with international markets, investors, chambers of commerce, entrepreneurial councils, and innovation ecosystems.

Through BRIDGE, members will gain access to cross-border partnerships, trade missions, business-matching activities, investment opportunities, and regional market expansion initiatives throughout ASEAN and other global markets.

Leading this internationalization strategy is Frances Gatungay, Vice President for Global Affairs of G.I.V.E. PH, who has been tasked with developing strategic alliances and strengthening the organization’s global network.

“G.I.V.E. PH was created from a simple but powerful belief—that Filipino entrepreneurs deserve greater access to international opportunities, meaningful collaborations, and global networks,” Gatungay said.

“This is only the beginning of a much larger movement that will empower Filipino entrepreneurs to compete, connect, and thrive beyond borders.”

From Vision to Reality

The concept behind G.I.V.E. PH originated from discussions between Gatungay and Heng, who recognized the growing need for stronger international pathways for Filipino entrepreneurs seeking global expansion opportunities.

What began as an idea soon evolved into a structured ecosystem initiative designed to provide entrepreneurs with access to mentorship, international partnerships, investment opportunities, and emerging markets.

The vision gained momentum through the support of Jocelyn Comaling of SNAD’s Trading & Printing, who facilitated a key introduction to Diominidico “Dick” Butawan, President of DRB Holdings.

Recognizing the long-term value of the initiative, Butawan became one of its strongest advocates and eventually assumed the role of Founder and Chairman of G.I.V.E. PH.

“G.I.V.E. PH was founded on the belief that entrepreneurship flourishes when people come together with a shared purpose,” said Butawan.

“Our goal is to create a platform where entrepreneurs, professionals, innovators, and industry leaders can learn from one another, unlock new opportunities, and build businesses that create lasting impact locally and globally.”

To oversee operations and implementation, Janice Diaz was appointed National President of G.I.V.E. PH and will lead the organization’s National Directorate in executing programs, strengthening member engagement, and expanding the ecosystem nationwide.

A New Model for Entrepreneurial Growth

Unlike traditional business organizations, G.I.V.E. PH positions itself as an ecosystem builder focused on venture development, collaboration, innovation, and institutional growth.

Its core programs include:

• Entrepreneurial leadership and capacity-building initiatives
• Venture development and innovation forums
• Business networking and ecosystem-building events
• Research and knowledge-sharing platforms
• Strategic partnerships and investor linkages
• Resource mobilization and venture support

The organization seeks to create an environment where entrepreneurs are not merely connected but empowered to grow sustainably and compete globally.

Strengthening ASEAN Collaboration

A highlight of the event was the ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between G.I.V.E. PH and GE1% Club Philippines Chapter.

The partnership formalizes both organizations’ commitment to:

• Strengthening entrepreneurial ecosystems
• Expanding cross-border business opportunities
• Supporting innovation and venture development
• Facilitating international collaboration
• Connecting entrepreneurs to regional and global markets

For Heng, the agreement represents more than a partnership—it represents a shift in entrepreneurial thinking.

“The future of entrepreneurship lies in collaboration, connectivity, and global thinking,” she said.

“This alliance is a meaningful step toward building stronger entrepreneurial ecosystems not only in the Philippines but throughout Cambodia, ASEAN, and beyond.”

Governance Built for Sustainability

During the launch, G.I.V.E. PH also introduced its pioneering 15-member National Directorate, composed of respected entrepreneurs, professionals, and industry leaders who will guide the organization’s strategic direction and implementation.

Supported by an Advisory Board and governed by principles of transparency, accountability, institutional integrity, and ethical leadership, the organization aims to establish itself as a long-term platform for entrepreneurial development and economic growth.

Looking Ahead

Following its successful launch, G.I.V.E. PH is preparing to roll out a series of programs focused on leadership development, innovation, investment matching, venture incubation, and international business expansion.

With BRIDGE serving as its gateway to the global marketplace, the organization hopes to transform Filipino entrepreneurs into globally competitive ecosystem players capable of creating opportunities far beyond local borders.

As the entrepreneurial landscape continues to evolve, G.I.V.E. PH seeks to prove that collaboration—not competition—will be the driving force behind the next generation of Filipino business success.