GOAB 2025 in Cebu Showcases Global Paths for Filipino Tech Talent

Filipino Tech Talent Global Opportunities take center stage at GOAB 2025 in Cebu

Geeks on a Beach (GOAB) 2025 returns to Mactan, Cebu from October 1 to 3. This year’s conference focuses on innovation, entrepreneurship, and how Filipino tech talent continues to shape the global workforce.

One of those stories belongs to Jose Rey Jr. Salvio, a Cebu-based software engineer whose journey from the Philippines to Austria reflects the rising demand for Filipino professionals in international tech hubs.

A graduate of the University of the Philippines Cebu, Salvio has spent a decade mastering full-stack development. He credits Cebu’s tech ecosystem for shaping his skills and outlook. When he discovered the Austrian Business Agency’s (ABA) talent hub, he saw a chance to build a better career and life for his family.

“Austria offers a high quality of life,” he said. “Work-life balance is valued here. We work 40 hours a week, and I can take half of Friday off. Overtime is discouraged.”

Through ABA, Salvio connected with Beyond Now, a European software solutions company. Despite challenges in securing overseas employment, he found strong support from ABA and POLO Milan during the transition.

Now settled in Austria with his wife and children, Salvio remains connected to Cebu’s startup community. He continues to promote GOAB among peers abroad, calling it a bridge between local innovation and global collaboration.

GOAB organizer Tina Amper said the event celebrates both startups and people like Salvio who bring Filipino expertise to the world. “Our ecosystem is maturing. GOAB celebrates these global journeys and strengthens ties between our local talent and the international tech scene.”

GOAB 2025 will feature speakers, investors, and partners from across the globe, spotlighting how Cebu drives the Philippines’ role in global innovation.