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The Innovation Challenge: How May We Maximize Technology (Web3, Blockchain, and AI) to Reduce Latencies and Address Interoperability Challenges in the Philippine Supply Chain Industry
Decentralized Networks
Blockchain technology can be leveraged to enhance transparency, traceability, and efficiency in supply chain operations. Key applications may include smart contracts, supply chain management solutions, and custom clearance platforms…
Intelligent Automation
AI-powered algorithms can be used for predictive analytics, automate decision-making, optimize routes, and manage inventory.
Real-Time Visibility
Web3 applications can provide real-time data and analytics to help companies make informed, data-driven supply chain decisions.
At 8:00 AM on November 13, 2024 at the Jade Hall of the Blue Leaf Pavilion, McKinley Hill Village, Taguig, Philippines, is where you would want to be as we bring together a select group of misfits, founders, innovators, visionaries, and technocrats to inspire ideas on how to reduce the latencies in the Philippine supply chain industry.
Do you Have What it Takes? Assemble Your Disruptive Dream Team
We're searching for 12 teams to tackle the innovation challenge and revolutionize the Philippine supply chain. Each team should have 3 talented developers with expertise in AI engineering, Web3, and blockchain technology. This diverse, tech-savvy squad will bring cutting-edge solutions to the table.
Don't miss your chance to be part of this exclusive event. Assemble your disruptive dream team and apply now to earn your seat at the Ph Startup Week. Together, we'll explore how to maximize emerging technologies for true supply chain interoperability.
Accepted participants will automatically earn their seat as founding members to the Disruptors Community.
Path to the Innovation Challenge

1

Organize Your Dev Team
Assemble a talented team 3 composed of Developers with background in AI engineering, WEb3, and Blockchain to tackle the challenge and bring innovative solutions to the table.

2

Apply for a Seat
Secure your spot at the exclusive Innovation Challenge event by submitting your application and getting selected.

3

Pre-event Build Workshop
Participate in the hands-on workshop on November 9, 2024 to refine your ideas and prepare for the on-site event. An industry mentor will be assigned to your team to guide you on real world use cases.

4

On-site Event
Showcase your innovative solutions at the PH Startup Week on November 13, 2024 and compete for the top prize.
Pre-event Build Workshop: Powered by AI Republic
On November 9, 2024, teams will converge for an immersive hands-on workshop to refine their innovative solutions and prepare for the main challenge event. This will be led by Carlo Almendral, Co-founder of AI Republic.
Carlo is a prominent figure in the tech industry, specializing in product development and artificial intelligence. He currently serves as the Managing Partner at DEFIANT, where he focuses on advancing the company's mission through innovative solutions.
Almendral is also the Chief Executive and Founder of Artificial Intelligence, Inc., and has a rich background as a serial entrepreneur, having launched several venture-backed companies across various sectors including gaming, e-commerce, and data ​science.​
In addition to his business ventures, Almendral is actively involved in philanthropy. He serves on the board of the FTW Foundation and is a founding member of the Innovation Council for the United Nations' World Food Programme. His contributions to education include teaching data science at UC Berkeley and social entrepreneurship at several universities in San Francisco.
Keynote Speakers and Hosts
Understand the importance and urgency of solving the latencies in the Philippine Supply Chain from our Keynote Speakers: DTI Usec Mary Jean Pacheco and Donald Lim, President of CITO CME. Learn how to accelerate idea validation from wAiz co-founder, Mack Comandante. And Join the fun with our hosts Kim Sarreal and Amber Teng.
Donald Lim
Dr. Donald Patrick Lim is a prominent figure in the fields of digital marketing and blockchain technology in the Philippines. He currently holds several key positions, including President and Chief Operating Officer of DITO CME, and Chief Innovation Officer of Udenna Corporation. Lim has a rich background in media, advertising, and digital sectors, having previously served as the Country CEO of Dentsu Aegis Philippines and Chief Digital Officer of ABS-CBN Corporation.
Jean Pacheco
Mary Jean Pacheco is the Undersecretary for the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in the Philippines, where she plays a pivotal role in enhancing logistics and supply chain efficiency in the country. Her work focuses on implementing strategic measures aimed at reducing logistics costs and streamlining supply chain processes, aligning with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s vision of transforming the Philippines into a premier logistics hub in Asia. During the SCMAP Supply Chain Conference 2024, Undersecretary Pacheco outlined comprehensive strategies to optimize logistics, including the implementation of an Executive Order on pass-through fees, efforts to lower international shipping charges, and promoting the adoption of e-airway bills. She has also been instrumental in developing a National Logistics Strategy and a National Logistics Investments Plan to attract investments in logistics infrastructure.
Mack Comandante
Mack Comandante is an influential international speaker, trainer, and coach focused on personal and professional development, particularly for business owners and entrepreneurs. He is the founder of Exoasia Innovation Hub. Exoasia inspires, validates, and scales solution by solving local problems through alliances between entrepreneurs, organizations, and governments leveraging on deep tech and global innovation ecosystems. Mack was part of board and past president of the Supply Chain Management Association of the Philippines (SCMAP).
Kim Sarreal
Kim Sarreal is a notable entrepreneur and business strategist in the Philippines, recognized for her expertise in digital marketing and brand development. She is the founder of the marketing consultancy firm, KS Growth Catalyst, which specializes in helping businesses enhance their online presence and engage effectively with their target audiences.
Amber Teng
Amber is a key figure in the Philippine tech and blockchain community, particularly known for her role in AI Republic, an organization focused on advancing artificial intelligence initiatives in the Philippines. As an instructor in AI Republic, Teng is dedicated to fostering innovation and collaboration among stakeholders in the AI sector.
The Panelists and Judges
Gain insight and be inspired as we tackle innovation, validation, and funding from experts in the panel discussion.
Karl Leung
Karl Leung is a prominent entrepreneur and co-founder of Go Philippines, an initiative aimed at transforming the Philippines into a smart nation through the integration of advanced technologies such as blockchain and digital assets. He serves as the Chief Visionary Officer for the project, where he plays a crucial role in developing strategies that facilitate the adoption of these technologies across various sectors.
Brandon Leong
Brandon Leong is a significant figure in the Philippine crowdfunding landscape, serving as the Business Unit Lead for Round One, the country's first equity crowdfunding platform. His role involves overseeing the platform's operations and strategic direction, aimed at facilitating funding for startups and small to medium enterprises (SMEs) in the Philippines.
Sarah Sison
Atty. Sarah Sison is a distinguished legal professional with extensive qualifications in international arbitration and dispute resolution, holding an LLM from the National University of Singapore and a MIDS-Geneva LLM from the University of Geneva. She is currently a Partner at Reyes, Rojas Maningat and Associates Law Firm. She served at the Office of the President at Malacañan Palace, Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning from 2010 to 2016.
Louis Kweyamba
Louis Kweyamba is a notable entrepreneur and co-founder of SwiftClaims, an innovative platform focused on revolutionizing the insurance claims process through the use of artificial intelligence (AI). His contributions are pivotal in streamlining claims management, making it more efficient and user-friendly for both insurers and policyholders.
Manny Onrejas, Jr.
Manuel L. Onrejas Jr. is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Logistics Group at FAST Logistics, a leading end-to-end logistics company in the Philippines. With over 20 years of experience in logistics and supply chain management, he has made significant contributions to the industry, particularly in integrating innovative technologies to enhance operational efficiency. Manny served as part of the board of directors of SCMAP.
Doc Ligot
Dominic "Doc" Ligot is an influential entrepreneur and consultant specializing in fintech, artificial intelligence (AI), and digital transformation. He is recognized for his commitment to data literacy, AI ethics, and social impact, focusing on various critical areas such as human rights, public health, food security, and combating disinformation. He is the Chairman of AI Republic.
Joseph de Leon
Joseph De Leon is a prominent figure in the Philippine startup ecosystem, serving as a founding member and lead investor of the Manila Angel Investors Network (MAIN). MAIN is the largest committed private investors network in the Philippines, established to support early-stage companies by connecting them with investors. The organization focuses on providing not only capital funding but also mentorship and networking opportunities to entrepreneurs.
Industry experts as mentors
Receive real world guidance on problems worth solving and solutions worth scaling from industry leaders.
Charmaine Co
Charmaine Co is the chairwoman of the Philippine Young Entrepreneurs Association, where she contributes to initiatives aimed at empowering young entrepreneurs through education, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
Itong Torres
Itong Torres is a notable figure in the fields of technology and data analytics, having served as the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) for both Universal Robina Corporation (URC) and the Villar Group. He is also the founder of Data Catalyst Partners, a firm dedicated to leveraging data-driven insights to help organizations enhance their operational efficiencies and decision-making processes.
Chris Islan
Chris Islan is a technology professional and entrepreneur, currently the CEO and CTO of Dev Team. With extensive experience in backend development and system architecture, Chris leads Dev Team in delivering innovative software solutions that embody their vision of going beyond outsourcing to become a true growth partner for global success. Guided by a mission rooted in efficiency, integrity, and the spirit of Bayanihan, Chris and Dev Team are dedicated to empowering businesses, enriching communities, resulting to meaningful partnerships worldwide.
Brandon Midel
Brandon Midel is the Vice President of Comfac Technology Options (CTO), a company that specializes in providing consulting and information technology services, focusing on unifying productivity tools and streamlining operations for businesses. He is also a mentor at the Founder Institute, where he supports aspiring entrepreneurs by offering guidance and feedback throughout their startup journeys.
Adrienne Heinrich
Dr. Adrienne Heinrich is the Vice President and head of the AI and Innovation Center of Excellence at Union Bank of the Philippines (UnionBank). She previously led AI and Machine Learning initiatives for personal health and connected care products at Royal Philips. Dr. Heinrich holds a master’s degree in Information Technology from ETH Zurich and earned her PhD from Eindhoven University of Technology, focusing on video motion analysis for emerging application areas.
Paolo Diaz
Paolo Diaz is the Chief Strategy Officer of Gothong Southern Shipping Lines, where he plays a crucial role in shaping the company's strategic direction and enhancing its operational efficiency.
Paolo has led initiatives in GSSL that are globally recognized at the 2021 ExO Prize.
Chenny Galano
Chenny Galano is an accomplished entrepreneur and the president of TRAIL (The Rizal Academy for Innovation and Leadership), an educational initiative aimed at fostering leadership transformation and innovation in the Philippines. With a focus on empowering change agents and innovative leaders, TRAIL offers executive training programs and technical support to address pressing economic, ecological, social, and spiritual challenges. she serves as an ExO (Exponential Organizations) consultant, guiding businesses in leveraging innovative strategies for growth and transformation.
Arlette Alvarado
Arlette Alvarado is recognized for her contributions to entrepreneurship and business development in the Philippines. As a Go Negoasyo Mentor, she is involved in empowering aspiring entrepreneurs by providing guidance, resources, and mentorship to help them succeed in their ventures. Her work focuses on fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and supporting small businesses, which are vital to the Philippine economy.
Kahu
Kahu, inspired by the Hawaiian word for "guardian" or "protector," is more than just an AI mentor—it's a trusted guide for entrepreneurs and innovators. Rooted in the spirit of mentorship, Kahu embodies the values of wisdom, growth, and collaboration, mirroring the sacred relationship between a teacher and a student.
Kahu's mission is to illuminate the entrepreneurial journey, offering evidence-based insights and personalized support at every stage of innovation. Whether helping to identify pressing problems, refine solutions, or achieve market alignment, Kahu empowers users to make informed, confident decisions.
Gladys Ceniza
Gladys Ceniza is the Vice President for Strategy and Marketing at Fast Logistics, a leading logistics company in the Philippines. In her role, she is responsible for developing and implementing strategic marketing initiatives that enhance the company's brand presence and drive business growth. Ceniza's expertise includes market analysis, customer engagement, and strategic planning, which are essential for navigating the competitive logistics landscape.
PH Startup Week: Empowering the Philippine Startup Ecosystem
PH Startup Week is an annual event that brings together the Philippines' vibrant startup community. Held across multiple venues, the conference features keynote speakers, panel discussions, and networking opportunities to foster innovation, collaboration, and growth within the local tech landscape.
Attendees can expect to engage with industry leaders, investors, and fellow entrepreneurs, exploring the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the Philippine startup ecosystem.
Earn your seat to the first and exclusive Disruptors meet-up
Join our exclusive community of visionary leaders, trailblazers, and innovators shaping the future of the world. Be part of groundbreaking initiatives that leverage Web3, blockchain, and AI to drive real transformation.
Innovate, Disrupt, and Scale
Empower your startup for rapid growth. The Disruptors is an exclusive startup founders group that connects ventures with the mentorship, accountability, and data-driven strategies to overcome early stage challenges.
Disruptors
Overcoming challenges of early stage ventures
The Disruptors mastermind group is designed to empower bold founders who are ready to tackle the unique challenges of scaling a new venture.
By bringing together like-minded innovators, we provide the mentorship, accountability, and data-driven strategies early-stage entrepreneurs need to make a big impact.
"From Ideas to Impact, Together"
Our exclusive community is built on a foundation of collaboration, innovation, and evidence-based growth.
Members support each other, hold one another accountable, and learn from successful entrepreneurs and experts to rapidly scale their startups.
What You'll Get
Exclusive Mentorship
Learn directly from successful entrepreneurs and industry experts who have navigated the challenges of product development, market entry, and rapid scaling.
This guidance will provide you with the strategic insights and real-world experience to take your startup to new heights.
Accountability & Collaboration
Become part of a supportive, like-minded community where every member is invested in each other's success.
The Disruptors Mastermind Group will hold you accountable, ensuring you make consistent progress, while also providing a sounding board to brainstorm ideas and refine your strategies.
Evidence-Based Growth
Solve your most pressing challenges using data-driven strategies and proven techniques for faster, more sustainable scaling.
Leverage the collective expertise of the group to identify what truly works, and avoid costly missteps through the implementation of validated, high-impact growth hacks.
Is This Exclusive Club Group For You?
An Early-Stage Founder
Struggling with scaling your business, entering new markets, or developing your product?
The Disruptors Mastermind Group is designed specifically to support founders like you who are navigating the unique challenges of an early-stage venture.
Seeking Support & Accountability
Looking for a community that provides the encouragement, feedback, and practical strategies you need to make consistent progress?
Our mastermind group will hold you accountable while also giving you the tools to grow your startup rapidly.
Wanting Evidence-Based Strategies
Ready to learn what truly works from real-world case studies and tested frameworks?
Leverage the collective expertise of successful entrepreneurs to solve your most pressing challenges using data-driven, high-impact solutions.
How It Works

1

Step 1: Apply
Start your journey by completing our quick application. This ensures the Disruptors Mastermind Group is the perfect fit to help your early-stage startup overcome its unique challenges. Our admissions team will review your submission and get back to you promptly.

2

Step 2: Onboarding & Orientation
Once you're accepted into the program, you'll join a dedicated onboarding session. This is where you'll be introduced to the group, learn about our core values, and get acquainted with how the mastermind operates. Leave this session feeling empowered and ready to dive in.

3

Step 3: Monthly Meet-ups
Every month, you'll participate in our structured meetings. This includes a "Founder Hot Seat" where you can present a key challenge, collaborative discussions on scaling strategies, and accountability check-ins to ensure you're making steady progress.

4

Step 4: Daily Check-Ins
But the support doesn't stop there. Stay connected with your fellow disruptors through our private Discord channel, sharing insights, breakthroughs, and continuing to hold each other accountable between meet-ups.
Our Core Values

Innovation
We foster groundbreaking ideas and disruptive thinking to help you blaze a trail in your industry.

Collaboration
You're not alone on this journey - our supportive community is here to lift you up every step of the way.

Accountability
We'll ensure you take actionable steps to turn your vision into reality and reach your goals.

Data-Driven Growth
All our strategies are grounded in evidence and outcome-driven, so you can trust that what you learn works, and why.
What You'll Learn
Idea Validation
Learn how to build and refine your Minimum Viable Product (MVP) to accelerate market entry and get your solution into customers' hands faster.
Customer Acquisition
Master the latest marketing techniques and tools to effectively find and convert your ideal customers, driving sustainable growth.
Growth Hacking
Discover cutting-edge growth strategies and leverage the right tools to rapidly expand your reach and take your startup to new heights.
Negotiation & Sales
Learn proven sales frameworks to sharpen your pitch, handle objections, and close high-ticket deals with confidence.
Meetings & Structure

1

Introductions & Wins
Each monthly session kicks off with an opportunity for members to share their latest progress and celebrate milestone achievements. This shared momentum fuels the collaborative spirit and keeps everyone motivated to drive their startups forward.

2

Founder Hot Seat
A few founders will take the "hot seat" each meet up, presenting a key challenge they're facing. The group will then come together to provide personalized feedback, offer strategic advice, and brainstorm innovative solutions to help propel that founder's business.

3

Thematic Discussions
In addition to the hot seat, we'll also dedicate time during each meeting to deep dive into important themes that are critical for early-stage founders. Topics could range from customer acquisition and growth hacking to product development and fundraising.

4

Accountability
No progress happens without accountability. At the end of each session, you'll work with the group to set clear, actionable goals for the month ahead. This ensures you leave each meeting motivated and with a concrete plan to maintain your momentum.
Apply Now!
Limited spots are available for the Disruptors Mastermind Group. Don't miss this chance to take your startup to the next level and join this exclusive community of early-stage founders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a mastermind group?
A mastermind group is a peer-to-peer mentoring community where members come together to solve problems, share advice, and support each other's growth. It's a powerful way for early-stage entrepreneurs to collaborate, gain new perspectives, and accelerate their journey to success.
How do I know this is for me?
If you're an ambitious founder facing challenges with product development, scaling, or market entry, the Disruptors Mastermind Group is designed specifically to provide you with the mentorship, accountability, and data-driven strategies you need to overcome those obstacles and take your startup to new heights.
What is the cost?
The Disruptors Mastermind Group offers flexible pricing plans to accommodate founders at different stages of their entrepreneurial journey. The cost is based on the level of support and resources you require. To get the most up-to-date pricing information, we encourage you to apply now and speak with our admissions team.
How often do we meet?
The mastermind group meets once a week for a 90-minute session. This consistent cadence allows us to dive deep into important topics, provide real-time feedback, and ensure you're making steady progress. Additionally, there are optional mid-week check-ins via our private Slack workspace or Notion platform to keep the momentum going.
Don't Miss Your Chance!
Spots in the Disruptors Mastermind Group are limited. This is your opportunity to transform your startup and accelerate your growth alongside a community of like-minded founders. Don't wait - apply now and claim your spot before it's gone!
Supply Chain and Logistics Challenges in the Philippines
Executive Summary
The logistics and supply chain sector in the Philippines is facing significant challenges that hinder its growth and efficiency. These challenges arise from inadequate infrastructure, geographic complexities, and evolving market demands, particularly in the context of a burgeoning e-commerce landscape. This white paper outlines the key challenges faced by the Philippine logistics industry and proposes potential solutions leveraging advanced technologies, including blockchain, Web3, artificial intelligence (AI), and Internet of Things (IoT).
Key Challenges
1. Inadequate Infrastructure
The Philippines suffers from significant infrastructural shortcomings, including poor road networks, congested urban areas, and underdeveloped ports. These deficiencies lead to high transportation costs and longer delivery times, impacting the overall efficiency of supply chains in the region.
2. Inefficient Logistics Systems
Logistics management in the Philippines is characterized by outdated practices and a reliance on manual processes. Many companies still use traditional methods for inventory management and shipping documentation, leading to delays and inefficiencies.
3. Geographic Complexity
As an archipelago, the Philippines faces unique logistical challenges due to its geographic layout. The reliance on maritime transport between islands makes supply chains vulnerable to disruptions caused by natural disasters such as typhoons and floods.
4. Environmental Vulnerabilities
Extreme weather events linked to climate change exacerbate existing supply chain issues. Disruptions from typhoons and flooding can damage infrastructure and disrupt transportation systems.
5. Demand Variability
Seasonal fluctuations in consumer demand complicate inventory management and logistics planning, necessitating higher stock levels during peak seasons.
6. Limited Access to Financing
Many logistics companies struggle with access to financing necessary for investing in infrastructure improvements or technological advancements.
7. Resistance to Technological Adoption
There is often a reluctance among businesses to adopt new technologies or practices due to perceived risks or costs associated with change.
Proposed Solutions Using Technology
Blockchain Technology
Blockchain technology can significantly enhance transparency and efficiency within the supply chain. By providing a decentralized ledger that records every transaction, blockchain can help streamline processes such as customs clearance and inventory management.
  • Customs Clearance: The deployment of a blockchain-based customs clearance platform like Ztrade can facilitate faster processing of trade flows between the Philippines and its trading partners by automating verification processes. This reduces delays caused by manual checks and enhances compliance with trade agreements[1].
  • Food Traceability: Implementing blockchain for food traceability allows consumers to verify the origin of products through QR codes, enhancing trust and safety in food supply chains[2]. This technology can ensure that food items are tracked from farm to table, minimizing waste during recalls.
  • Supplier Relationships: Blockchain can foster better relationships between suppliers by ensuring transparency in transactions and reducing administrative burdens[3]. Real-time data sharing among suppliers can improve inventory management and decision-making.
Web3 Technologies
Web3 technologies can revolutionize how businesses interact within the supply chain ecosystem:
  • Decentralized Applications (dApps): By leveraging dApps for logistics operations, companies can create more efficient systems that reduce reliance on centralized authorities. This decentralization enhances data security and facilitates smoother transactions across various stakeholders.
  • Smart Contracts: Utilizing smart contracts on blockchain platforms allows for automated execution of agreements when predefined conditions are met, reducing delays associated with manual contract enforcement.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
AI can optimize logistics operations through predictive analytics, real-time monitoring, and automated decision-making:
  • Demand Forecasting: AI algorithms can analyze historical data to predict demand fluctuations accurately, enabling businesses to adjust inventory levels proactively[4]. This capability helps mitigate stockouts or overstock situations.
  • Route Optimization: AI-powered transport management systems can analyze traffic patterns and weather conditions to optimize delivery routes in real-time, improving efficiency and reducing costs[4].
  • Proactive Problem Solving: With real-time data at their disposal, logistics professionals can identify potential delays early on, allowing them to take corrective action swiftly.
Internet of Things (IoT)
IoT technology facilitates real-time visibility into supply chain operations:
  • Real-Time Tracking: IoT sensors can monitor shipments' conditions (e.g., temperature for perishables) throughout their journey, ensuring product quality[4]. This capability is crucial for maintaining standards in industries like agriculture where freshness is paramount.
  • Traffic Management: IoT devices integrated with traffic systems can provide logistics companies with insights into congestion patterns, enabling them to reroute deliveries efficiently[4].
Conclusion
The logistics and supply chain sector in the Philippines faces significant challenges that require immediate attention. By leveraging advanced technologies such as blockchain, Web3 solutions, AI, and IoT, stakeholders can enhance operational efficiency, improve transparency, and build resilience against disruptions. Addressing these issues will not only benefit businesses but also contribute to overall economic stability and growth.
Citations and References
  1. BusinessWorld Online. (2023). Blockchain-based customs clearance platform to be deployed in the country.
  1. Philippine Star. (2023). Unraveling the supply chain with blockchain: A basic use case of inventory traceability.
  1. FAST Logistics Group. (2023). Blockchain in the Philippines – 7 Ways It Enhances Supplier Relationships.
  1. FAST Logistics Group. (2024). Building resilient supply chains: Technology for real-time transport visibility and agile decision-making.
  1. Transportify Blog. (2023). Agriculture Supply Chain: Challenges And Opportunities In The Philippines.
  1. Vinculum Group. (2023). Supply Chain Challenges in the Philippines: How Can You Overcome Them?
Citations:
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