LSE Generate launches 23rd chapter in Philippines

MANILA, Philippines — LSE Generate, the London School of Economics’ entrepreneurship center, has launched its first international cluster in Southeast Asia – covering the Philippines, Vietnam and Indonesia – while also recognizing the Philippines as its 23rd international chapter.

A recent event at the Brittany Hotel in Taguig City brought together innovators, corporate leaders and government officials to explore opportunities for social innovation across the region.

Hosted by VistaLand, it highlighted the Philippines’ expanding startup ecosystem, addressing climate change, financial inclusion and community health.

There was also a panel entitled “Innovating for the Betterment of Society” featuring Maria Gaitanidou (co-founder and CEO of Hati Health), Yohan Iddawela (data scientist at the Asian Development Bank), LJ Silverman (head of LSE Generate, as moderator) and Anna Mae Lamentillo (founder of NightOwlGPT).

LSE Generate will conduct educational outreach visits to local international schools, led by Silverman in partnership with fintech unicorn OakNorth.

These sessions build on the Schools Program, which has reached nearly 10,000 students worldwide, encouraging young learners in Southeast Asia to adopt an entrepreneurial mindset. A networking and peer-mentorship weekend on Boracay Island will further strengthen the region’s ecosystem.

Reflecting on the Manila event, Silverman said, “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 to champion innovation and meaningful impact. We’re not just engaging a local network; but in true LSE style we’re empowering a movement that connects ideas, people and resources to drive lasting change. We are grateful for the support of VistaLand in making this vision a reality.”

Project sponsor Sen. Mark Villar noted, “I am proud to support LSE Generate’s new Southeast Asia cluster and its bold vision of empowering entrepreneurs to drive sustainable growth across our region. This collaboration with the London School of Economics underscores our collective commitment to transforming challenges into opportunities, cultivating global partnerships and elevating the lives of our people through meaningful impact.”

Currently, LSE Generate has 23 chapters worldwide, including Lisbon, Miami, Paris, Los Angeles, New York, Singapore, Thailand, Nigeria, Delhi, Mumbai, San Francisco, Mexico, Brazil and Colombia.