Empowering Filipino SMEs Through AI

A group of twelve people, both men and women, dressed in business and traditional attire, standing and posing in a studio setting with a neutral background.

We don't just teach AI — we live the challenges that local businesses face. Our approach is grounded in real-world experience, not mere theory, making us true partners in the journey toward growth and innovation.

PAIBA bridges the gap between AI technology and Filipino SMEs by simplifying complex concepts, offering practical resources, and fostering meaningful collaborations.

Through tailored tools and expert guidance, we make AI adoption accessible, helping businesses innovate and grow in a rapidly evolving market.

PAIBA logo, Philippine AI Business Association, black background, white and teal geometric design.

Deep Understanding of Filipino SMEs

The Philippine AI Business Association (PAIBA) helps Filipino SMEs grow by making AI adoption simple, practical, and experience driven.

At PAIBA, we understand the real challenges of local businesses because we’re also going through the same transformation.

Through hands-on learning, tailored AI solutions, and a strong community, we navigate the AI journey together — ensuring no SME is left behind in the future of businesses.

Meet the PAIBA Founding Board of Directors

Group of professionals wearing business attire, posing for a formal photo.

The Philippine AI Business Association (PAIBA) Founding Board of Directors is dedicated to guiding Filipino businesses in integrating AI into their operations, ensuring responsible and strategic adoption tailored to SMEs. Representing various industries, the board brings expertise in business development, legal compliance, data governance, AI technology, marketing, and industry-specific applications.

From left to right: Dominic “Doc” Ligot, Founding Director for AI Ethics & Data Governance and Co-Director for Marketing and PR; Allan Tan, Founding Director for AI Technology & Research; Victoria “Vicky” Betita, Founding Execom and Director for Industry Development; Josephine “Josie” C. See, Founding Execom and Director for Membership & Engagement; Atty. Joshua Jerome Q. Santiago, Founding Execom, Board Secretary and Director for Legal & Compliance; Anne Francisco, Founding Vice President and Execom; Jerry Ilao, Founding President; Prof. Ricardo “Ricky” De Vera, Founding Director for Strategic Marketing & Business Transformation; Enrique Pablo “Eric” Caeg, Founding Director for Organizational Development; Atty. Arnel D. Mateo, Founding Director for Legal & Data Privacy; Amrei Dizon, Founding Execom and Co-Director for Marketing & PR.

  • JERRY ILAO, CPA, CIA, CPM, CPE

    Co-Founder and President of PAIBA, Jerry is dedicated to empowering SMEs to adopt AI, bringing deep expertise in business strategy, AI implementation, and digital transformation.

    Jerry Ilao is an AI Enabler and Business Strategist, Co-Founder and Founding President of the Philippine AI Business Association (PAIBA). He is committed to transforming Filipino businesses through AI, leveraging his extensive expertise as a CPA, CIA, CPM, and Certified Prompt Engineer. Jerry is also CEO of Olern, an AI-driven consulting firm, and founder of AI-Ready Pilipinas. His work includes founding MobileOptima, a leading digital transformation firm whose solution, Tarkie, serves prominent companies such as Globe, Uratex, and Abenson. He is a recognized leader in the Philippine Marketing Association and International Council for Small Business (ICSB) Philippines.

  • Anne Francisco

    PAIBA VP and Founding Execom specializing in food retail innovation and AI adoption for operational growth and business expansion.

    Anne Francisco is the co-owner and COO of Francisco Food Specialties, known for the iconic Ferino's Bibingka. She has successfully expanded her family business through franchising and product innovation. Anne leverages her expertise in operational management and quality control to assist SMEs in adopting AI-driven solutions.

  • Atty. Joshua Jerome Q. Santiago

    Founding Execom and Board Secretary, overseeing governance and compliance, actively involved in integrating AI within legal frameworks and processes.

    Atty. Joshua Santiago is the Managing Partner at Javier, Santiago, Torres and Panghulan Law Offices, based in Ortigas and Cebu. He graduated cum laude from the University of the Philippines with a degree in English Studies and completed his law degree at the same institution, where he became President of the Law Christian Fellowship and the Law Student Government. His legal practice covers family law, estates, criminal law, business law, tax appeals, and preventive litigation. A seasoned public speaker and Toastmasters champion, Atty. Santiago is passionate about the intersection of AI and law, exploring how technology can enhance legal services and ethical compliance.

  • Amrei Dizon, CPM, ME

    PAIBA's Founding Execom and Director for Marketing and PR, dedicated to increasing awareness and adoption of AI among SMEs through strategic branding and effective communication.

    Amrei Dizon, CPM, ME, is the Founder and Chief Creative Officer of Vitalstrats Creative Solutions and Co-Founder of Introspeck Management Consultancy. With over 20 years of experience in marketing strategy, business consultancy, and digital transformation, she actively supports SMEs in adopting innovative AI tools. Amrei is also a Certified Professional Marketer, a GoNegosyo mentor, and has been recognized as one of Asia’s Top Outstanding Netizen (Digital) Marketeers.

  • Victoria "Vicky" Betita

    Founding Execom and Director of Industry Development at PAIBA, Vicky leverages her expertise in finance and organizational transformation to help SMEs integrate sustainable and effective AI solutions.

    Victoria "Vicky" Betita is a seasoned finance and strategy executive with 30 years of experience leading financial management, strategic transformation, and digital innovation. A certified digital transformation professional, she specializes in business model innovation, organizational change, and technology-driven growth. Vicky is passionate about guiding emerging leaders and remains committed to building sustainable, future-ready enterprises.

  • Josephine "Josie" C. See

    PAIBA Founding Execom and Director focused on Membership, and retail transformation and franchising strategies for SMEs.

    Josie See is the Founder and President of JM Peanut World, established in 1996. Her entrepreneurial skills elevated the peanut snack industry, achieving national recognition. As a Director of PAIBA, she shares her expertise in retail and franchising, guiding SMEs on integrating AI technologies to modernize operations and customer engagement.

  • Enrique Pablo "Eric" Caeg, CPM

    PAIBA Founding Director specialized in organizational development and training. His expertise in strategic planning and team coaching supports the association's mission to build a robust community adept at AI integration.

    Enrique Pablo O. Caeg (Eric) is an Organization Development expert with extensive experience in strategic planning, executive coaching, team facilitation, and organizational development. He is a Clinical Professor at the Asian Institute of Management, Chairman of Coaches Connect Service Cooperative, and President of RAP Training & Marketing Services. Eric is deeply involved in various business and coaching associations, bringing his vast experience in organizational growth and strategy.

  • Dominic "Doc" Ligot

    PAIBA Founding Director focused on advancing responsible AI adoption. He brings extensive experience in data ethics, AI education, and social-impact technology to the board.

    Dominic "Doc" Ligot is a technologist, data ethics advocate, and AI expert with over 30 years of experience in AI applications across various sectors, including finance, marketing, and public health. He represents the Philippines in the Expert Advisory Panel on Advanced AI Safety (UK DSIT) and heads AI and Technology for the IT-BPM Association of the Philippines. Doc founded CirroLytix and Data Ethics PH, championing ethical data practices and social-impact AI. He co-authored the Master’s program in Applied Business Analytics at the University of Asia and the Pacific and co-founded the Analytics Association of the Philippines.

  • Atty. Arnel D. Mateo

    PAIBA Founding Director, specializing in data privacy and cybersecurity. He leverages his legal expertise to ensure SMEs are compliant and secure as they integrate AI.

    Atty. Arnel D. Mateo is the President of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry - Quezon City, acclaimed as the Most Outstanding Chamber in NCR and a Hall of Fame Awardee. As a strong advocate for MSME development, he's an active GoNegosyo mentor and creator of "IDOL SA NEGOSYO." Professionally, he specializes in litigation, Data Privacy, Cybercrime Law, and is Senior Partner at Mateo Duran and Associates Law Offices. His leadership and advocacy in data privacy earned him the Mario Nery Vocational Excellence and Aliw Excellence Awards.

  • Prof. Ricardo “Ricky” De Vera, MBA, CSP, CMP

    PAIBA Founding Director specializing in strategic marketing and digital transformation, enhancing SME growth through AI-driven customer engagement and operational strategies.

    Prof. Ricardo “Ricky” De Vera, MBA, CSP, CMP, is a distinguished educator, certified facilitator, and strategic consultant specializing in digital transformation, marketing, and customer engagement. He is the first Filipino certified by the Australia and New Zealand Marketing & Sales Associations. Ricky teaches MBA programs at prestigious institutions and consults extensively for both private and government sectors across ASEAN, recognized for facilitating impactful business transformations through AI and innovation.

  • Allan Tan

    Founding Director, bringing technical expertise in AI-driven software solutions, supporting PAIBA's mission through innovation and responsible AI adoption.

    Technopreneur, Founder, and Chief AI Strategist at Predictive Systems, Inc. Board director of the Philippine Software Industry Association and co-director at Founder Institute Manila. Expert in AI solutions and software development with a focus on responsible and impactful AI applications.

Lead the AI Movement in the Philippines

Founding Members shape PAIBA from the ground up. You stand out as an early champion of AI for SMEs—gaining exclusive recognition, direct access to curated AI tools, and priority networking with like-minded pioneers.

Exclusive Recognition

A Founding Member Badge and permanent mention in official PAIBA materials.

Access to AI Tools

Curated resources and training programs designed for Philippine SMEs.

Priority Networking

Connections with business owners, AI professionals, and thought leaders through exclusive events.

Learning Opportunities

Early registration and discounts for workshops, certifications, and hackathons.

Member Experience

Monthly AI Connect Learning Event

Hear from fellow members and AI leaders about real-world success stories and emerging trends.

Workshops & Certifications

Level up skills through webinars and structured programs focused on tangible outcomes.

Monthly AI Digest

Stay current on the latest AI breakthroughs and best practices for SMEs.

Quarterly Hackathons

Put concepts into practice with hands-on sessions that integrate AI into daily operations.

Quarterly General Membership Meetings

Connect and collaborate with business leaders to exchange insights on AI implementation.

Toolkits & Resources

Access industry-specific AI playbooks and a curated marketplace of both free and discounted tools.

Modern conference room with a round table, chairs, large ceiling light, and natural light streaming in.
  • Focus on practical, measurable solutions suited to Filipino SMEs.

  • A leadership team with firsthand experience in local business challenges.

  • Government, tech providers, and academic institutions working together to support SMEs.

  • Bringing international AI advancements into the Philippine business landscape.

Our Unique Approach

Take the Lead in
AI Adoption

By joining as a Founding Member, you’re not just adapting to the rise of AI—you’re driving it. Leverage these tools, resources, and networks to position your SME for continued growth while contributing to a stronger, more tech-savvy Philippines.

Act Now

Secure your slot among our limited Founding Membership. Shape the future of AI in Philippine business and unlock new possibilities for your enterprise.

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