Sen. Mark Villar delivers his remarks on the broader impact of LSE Generate’s new Southeast Asia cluster.

LSE Generate, the London School of Economics’ world-renowned entrepreneurship center, just made a game-changing move in Southeast Asia! This January, it officially launched its first international cluster in the region, spotlighting the Philippines, Vietnam, and Indonesia. Even bigger? The Philippines is now LSE Generate’s 23rd international chapter, solidifying its role as a key player in the global startup ecosystem.

UK Deputy Ambassador Alistair White delivered opening remarks, underscoring the international importance of this new chapter.

Left to Right: Former University of the Philippines President Danilo Concepcion, Atty. Gaby Concepcion, Undersecretary Emmeline Aglipay-Villar, Senator Mark Villar, LSE Generate Head LJ Silvermann, LSE Generate Country Ambassador Anna Mae Yu Lamentillo, and LSE Generate Communications and Events Manager Sian Kincaide.

A Power-Packed Kickoff in Manila

The grand launch wasn’t just any startup event—it was a high-energy gathering of top innovators, government leaders, and game-changing entrepreneurs at the Brittany Hotel in Taguig. Hosted by VistaLand, the event featured a panel discussion on “Innovating for the Betterment of Society,” bringing together thought leaders like:

• Maria Gaitanidou, Co-founder and CEO of Hati Health
• Yohan Iddawela, Data Scientist at the Asian Development Bank
• Anna Mae Lamentillo, Founder of NightOwlGPT
• LJ Silverman, Head of LSE Generate (and moderator for the night)

Panelists discuss groundbreaking approaches to social impact during the “Innovating for the Betterment of Society” panel. From left: LJ Silverman (Head of LSE Generate, as moderator), Anna Mae Lamentillo (Founder of NightOwlGPT), Maria Gaitanidou (Co-founder and CEO of Hati Health), and Yohan Iddawela (Data Scientist at the Asian Development Bank).

UK Deputy Ambassador Alistair White kicked things off, emphasizing how this new chapter is more than just a milestone—it’s a game-changer for ASEAN entrepreneurship. The Philippines is rapidly becoming a hub for social innovation, with startups tackling climate change, financial inclusion, sustainability, and community health head-on.

Panelists discuss groundbreaking approaches to social impact during the “Innovating for the Betterment of Society” panel. From left: LJ Silverman (Head of LSE Generate, as moderator), Anna Mae Lamentillo (Founder of NightOwlGPT), Maria Gaitanidou (Co-founder and CEO of Hati Health), and Yohan Iddawela (Data Scientist at the Asian Development Bank).

What the Leaders Are Saying  

LJ Silverman, Head of LSE Generate:  
"This marks a new chapter for LSE Generate and for Southeast Asia’s entrepreneurial ecosystems. The vibrancy, talent, and ingenuity we see in the region are a perfect match for LSE Generate’s mission. We’re not just engaging a local network; we’re empowering a movement that connects ideas, people, and resources to drive lasting change."

Anna Mae Lamentillo, Founder of NightOwlGPT:  
"I’m honored to join LSE Generate’s new Southeast Asia cluster at such a pivotal moment. By harnessing our region’s collective strengths in innovation, resourcefulness, and collaboration, we can accelerate transformative solutions that uplift entire communities."

Sen. Mark Villar, Project Sponsor:  
"By focusing on the ASEAN region, we can harness the extraordinary talent, creativity, and resilience that define Southeast Asia. This collaboration with the London School of Economics underscores our commitment to turning challenges into opportunities and elevating lives through meaningful impact."

A Bold Future for ASEAN Entrepreneurship

This is just the beginning. As LSE Generate’s 23rd international chapter, the Philippines is now at the forefront of Southeast Asia’s startup revolution. With strong regional partnerships, mentorship programs, and collaborative efforts, this cluster is set to drive innovation, empower local entrepreneurs, and make a lasting impact on the global stage.

From Lisbon to Los Angeles, Miami to Manila, LSE Generate is building an unstoppable network of visionaries, problem-solvers, and changemakers. The question is: Are you ready to be part of it?