The 100th Monkey, One Movement at a Time

Living in a community-centric family, collaboration towards shared goals has been ingrained in me since childhood. I’ve always been driven by the potential I see in Davao City and Mindanao. That’s why I joined DEVCON and started volunteering in Mindanao—to contribute to our growth together.

Leading DEVCON in Davao, my focus is on crafting strategies and partnerships to boost innovation and technology across our region. Equally important is nurturing leaders who share our vision, giving them platforms to showcase their ideas and skills, and seeing how they make a real difference in our community.

Mindanao’s diversity has taught me that our differences can be our strength. Just like the 100th monkey effect shows, when we unite diverse perspectives, we can achieve incredible things together.

In my experience, I’ve seen firsthand how collaboration can transform communities. Our work has brought together cities like Davao, Cagayan de Oro, Iligan, and soon, Bukidnon, spreading our vision and sparking collaboration.

I’ve learned that change starts with one person taking a step forward. Being that catalyst has shown me the power of community support. It’s not just about leadership—it’s about bringing people together to achieve our shared goals.

Looking ahead, I envision Mindanao becoming a leading tech hub in the Philippines. Empowering skilled trailblazers and fostering a community of innovators will drive progress in arts, education, and technology across our region. Ultimately, it’s the actions of these individuals that create lasting change.

dish was a lens through which I could view the region’s rich heritage and unique flavors

Our Culture through a Lens

I began my career by capturing people’s faces through my camera. As I explored different styles, I had the opportunity to work with agencies promoting Mindanao and its potential. This experience opened my eyes to the vibrant culture of Mindanao.

The highlight for me was trying traditional foods that aren’t available anywhere else. Each dish was a lens through which I could view the region’s rich heritage and unique flavors such as “nilotlot”

And for me, volunteering is like exploring. It allows me to discover new places, meet diverse people, and immerse myself in different cultures, all while giving back to the community.

Tech Trailblazer: Weaving Innovation in Mindanao

My journey in Mindanao is a tapestry woven with threads of passion for technology, a commitment to volunteerism, and a deep-seated connection to the vibrant culture and potential of the region. From my student days, I’ve been deeply involved in fostering Technopreneurship in Bukidnon and my first job in DOST-CARAGA after I graduated was actually in line with it.

As a volunteer organizer, I spearheaded the first-ever Startup Weekend in the province when I was still a student, igniting a flame of innovation and entrepreneurship in the community. Witnessing the energy and creativity of local talent coming together to create tech-startups was truly inspiring. Because of my burning spirit in building the tech community in Bukidnon, when I first heard about DEVCON, I became interested in being part of its community. DEVCON’s mission to empower and connect developers resonated deeply with my own aspirations to harness technology for positive change.

Mindanao, with its rich tapestry of cultures, landscapes, and challenges, became the canvas upon which I could paint my aspirations. In Mindanao, I found not just a place to volunteer, but a community in need of technological solutions to uplift and empower. Through my journey in Mindanao, I’ve come to understand that technology isn’t just a tool, but a catalyst for progress, and my commitment to leveraging it for good continues to fuel my endeavors in this beautiful and dynamic region.

DEVCON Mindanao Summit 2024 – Davao Tourist Spots, Festivals, Food and Culture!

credits to: John Mariposque

In the heart of Mindanao, a tech event is coming, and you’re invited to be a part of it. This 2024, DEVCON will have Mindanao’s first and largest tech summit, set in the city of Davao.  This summit is an immersive experience designed to foster innovation, networking, and learning within Mindanao’s burgeoning tech landscape. Celebrating and promoting the startup culture, the event highlights the dynamic tech scene in Mindanao, making it an unmissable event for technology experts, developers, and IT enthusiasts from all over the Philippines and beyond.

Photo credit: flickr.com

A Summit for Everyone, A City to Explore

If you’re joining us from another city or country, you’re in for a treat. While you’re here for the summit, why not take a little detour? Dive into what Davao has to offer — trust us, it’s worth checking out.

Known for its natural beauty, diverse culture, and culinary delights, Davao is a destination that promises an experience beyond the conference halls. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a food enthusiast, or a culture buff, Davao has something for you.

Must-Visit Spots in Davao

Davao has a plethora of places to explore – we’ve even listed 6 spots you can visit while you’re here for the summit! Here’s 3 worth checking out:

  1. Crocodile Park – For an encounter with one of nature’s most fascinating creatures, the Crocodile Park is a must-visit. Home to thousands of crocodiles, including both freshwater and saltwater species, the park offers a unique glimpse into the life of these reptiles. Don’t miss the incubator room, where you can see how crocodile eggs are carefully nurtured until they hatch.
  2. Samal Island – Just a few minutes ferry-ride from the city, Samal Island offers pristine beaches and clear waters, perfect for a day of relaxation after the Summit. It’s home to several Samal Island resorts – Costa Marina, Paradise Island, and Club Samal, to name a few.
  3. Museo Dabawenyo & Kadayawan Village – Take a peek into Davao and Mindanao’s rich culture with a visit to Museo Dabawenyo and the Kadayawan Village at Magsaysay Park. These sites offer a look into the indigenous and Moro cultures through exhibits of traditional houses, weapons, musical instruments, and more.

Davao’s Culinary Delights

No visit to Davao would be complete without trying out its local delicacies.

  1. Durian – At Kadayawan Village, experience the distinctive aroma and flavor of the fruit that Davao is most famous for, Durian. The food stalls lined up in the village offer a variety of snacks made with the pungent fruit like durian candy, durian shakes, and durian ice cream.
  2. Grilled Meat – For a taste of local street food, head to Roxas Night Market, where a line of stalls grill and serve up fresh seafood and meat.
  3. Bulcachong – If you’re a bit more daring, you might want to try Bulcachong, a comforting soup made with carabao meat and a blend of spices and ginger, guaranteed to warm your soul.

Join Us at the Summit

As we gear up for the largest tech summit in Mindanao, we invite you to not only enhance your professional tech skills but also to immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of Davao.

Join us at the DEVCON Mindanao Summit 2024 in Davao, where the dynamic tech scene meets beauty in diversity.