Geeks on a Beach 2025: Building a resilient future with technology

CEBU CITY, PHILIPPINES – The Philippines’ most anticipated international tech and startup conference, Geeks on a Beach (GOAB), makes a much-awaited return on October 1–3, 2025, at JPark Island Resort in Mactan, Cebu. Now on its eighth edition, GOAB continues to unite innovators, entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers in an environment that is equal parts inspiring and unconventional, sparking bold conversations on how technology and collaboration can shape a more resilient future.

Since its inception in 2013, GOAB has carved its place as a flagship gathering for the Philippine startup ecosystem, consistently drawing participants from Asia, Silicon Valley, and beyond. More than just a conference, it has evolved into a launchpad for collaborations, investments, and transformative ideas. The event has connected founders with mentors and investors, introduced professionals to new ventures, and helped companies discover solutions in an atmosphere where partnerships flourish and opportunities abound.

“Over the past eight years, GOAB has grown into a catalyst for collaborations, investments, and game-changing ideas.” said Tina Amper, GOAB’s lead organizer. “We’re back this October to build boldly on the momentum we’ve achieved for Philippine innovation. Given the global disruptions and the rapid rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI), it’s more crucial than ever for our community to come together, tackle these challenges head-on, and strategically refocus, rebuild, and renew. If you want to see where the future of startups and technology is being built, you’ll find it at GOAB.”

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This year introduces the GOAB Beach Club, a year-round collaborative membership platform designed to extend the event’s trademark energy of thought leadership and serendipitous encounters. “The GOAB magic isn’t just a once-a-year event. It’s now a year-round movement through the GOAB Beach Club, inviting more partners to shape the future of innovation with us,” said Cebu-based GOAB co-founding organizer and Symph CEO Dave Overton.

Another key addition is the Startup Demos, expanding on the popular lightning pitches that have historically propelled Filipino founders onto international stages. These demos offer more entrepreneurs the opportunity to showcase their work directly to investors and corporate partners, potentially leading to transformative deals and partnerships.

The program also features exclusive AI masterclasses, designed to help organizations navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence. From beginner-friendly GenAI sessions to advanced applications for developers, product managers, and business teams, these workshops aim to equip participants with practical knowledge they can immediately apply.

In the main conference, Tim Santos will present an overview of AI adoption in the Philippines, based on findings from PhilippineAIReport.com. His session will offer strategic insights for executives and founders on integrating AI while maximizing human talent.

GOAB 8 reflects the strength of the Philippine innovation ecosystem, bolstered by both private and government partnerships. Organized by the non-profit group geeksPH with foundational support from the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), the event has secured sponsorship from leading organizations including the Austrian Business Agency, Kickstart Ventures, 917 Ventures, Sinigang Valley Association, Apollo Technologies Inc., Megaworld, Bamboo Ventures, PwCPH, and more.

Community partners such as QBO Innovation Hub, Ideaspace Ventures, The Company PH, DEVCON PH, and UXPH join in amplifying GOAB’s mission, while government agencies including the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), DOST-PCIEERD, and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 7 play pivotal roles in strengthening regional innovation. A dedicated Region 7 panel will showcase how programs like StartupIsland.ph are positioning Central Visayas as a hub for startups and emerging technologies.

This year’s speaker lineup brings together some of the most respected figures in the local and international startup scene, including: