2026 marks my 10th year in EO, and I find it difficult to separate my journey as an entrepreneur (and friend, husband, father) from my journey in this organization. Over the years, I've served our chapter as Chair for Membership, Learning, and Forum, then as the 4th President of EO Philippines South—which I helped found in 2019. EO has opened doors to extraordinary learning experiences, from executive programs at London Business School and Wharton to the Asia Bridge Forum, which I've been part of since 2019. These experiences have challenged my perspective on our business and how intentionally I live my life. Perhaps the greatest gift I've received from EO is friendship. Over the past decade, my wife and I have been blessed with cherished friendships across countries, cultures, industries, and stages of life. EO has been my place to learn, serve, grow, and belong. 10 years later, I continue to be blessed to receive as much as I hope to give back.

My EO journey began with a chance conversation on a flight with an EO member now serving on the Global Board. I knew little about the organization and couldn’t have imagined how that encounter would shape my life. In less than five years, EO became more than a professional community. It brought meaningful friendships, introduced me to peer-based leadership, and gave me the privilege of serving as President of EO Philippines South. EO taught me to listen before I solve and become more conscious of how I show up for people. These lessons strengthened relationships. Leading the chapter deepened my conviction that we grow through selfless service. I saw what becomes possible when people share a purpose and take ownership of their community. EO widened my perspective. Exchanging ideas with entrepreneurs worldwide taught me humility and showed me how greatness can take many forms. I joined EO hoping to become a better entrepreneur. I became a better human being. Today, I hope to pay it forward by helping my children grow as entrepreneurs and begin their own EO journeys.