Theme: Unveiling Perspectives

"Unveiling Perspectives" at TEDxRizalStreet means discovering new ways of looking at things. It's like opening a box of surprises, finding fresh ideas and seeing the world from different angles. This theme encourages us to be curious, to explore various viewpoints, and to appreciate the beauty in understanding how others see things.

Sorsogon City
Rizal Street
Sorsogon City, Bicol (Region V), 4700
Philippines

Adrian Insigne

Physician, Health advocate to the youth

Adrian was that easy-going kid who always slept in class, turned doctor, who strived, worked, and rested his way through medical school. He gained popularity by posting about his journey in becoming a licensed doctor on social media, advocating the importance of a healthy lifestyle and a strong mental fortitude. Recently passing the Philippine Licensure Exam, he now practices as a General Practitioner in some clinics in Metro Manila. After ten years of studying, it is still the beginning of his medical career as he plans to specialize in the near future.

Antoinette Taus

Host, singer, actor, UNEP goodwill ambassador

Antoinette Taus, a Filipino-American actor, singer, and UN Environment Programme Goodwill Ambassador, founded CORA (Communities Organized for Resource Allocation), promoting sustainable development through impactful programs. She's a Changemaker for National Geographic Asia's "Planet Possible," hosts "The Podcast of Plastic," and anchors shows like “Where To Next?” and "Emerging Energy” on CNN Philippines. Passionate about UN SDGs, she leads initiatives in sustainability, climate action, women empowerment, and the circular economy, aiming for an inclusive future. CORA engages over 25,000 volunteers, focusing on climate action, biodiversity, and women's economic empowerment, collaborating with communities, partners, and volunteers nationwide.

Conyo Bicolano

Content creator

Gregy, born and raised in Daet, Cam. Norte, is the youngest of 5 siblings. He graduated from Mabini Colleges with a degree in AB Comm and was an active member of Tanghalang Mabini and an editorial cartoonist for The Dragon at ChungHua HS. Gregy worked as a Training and Employee Engagement Sup at SM Prime Holdings Inc. from 2015-19, later becoming a Digital Learning Sup at SM Cinema. From 2020-22, he served as a Senior Learning Experience Designer for Johnson & Johnson International, earning a certification in Storytelling for UX from Nielsen Norman Group. Currently, he is a content creator known as Conyo Bicolano on FB, TikTok & YouTube, advocating for Bicolano culture & arts. He has spoken at the 8th Regional Youth Entrepreneurial Congress and TEDxBIRBicol. Presently, he is a talent at 90.7 Love Radio Manila, hosting the programs "TARA, KAPE" and "DEAR, LOVE" with DJ Robin Sienna, and was nominated for Best Male Radio Host at the 5th Village Pipol Choice Awards.

Daniel Joseph Rocio and PDC Dancers

"Way Home to Sorsogon," composed and sung by Daniel Joseph Rocio, was a standout performance during TEDxRizalStreet's "Unveiling Perspectives." His heartfelt lyrics and soulful voice resonated with the audience, capturing the essence of the province's rich culture and warm sense of community. The performance was elevated by the graceful choreography of the PDC Dancers, whose synchronized movements added depth and emotion to the song. Together, they delivered a powerful portrayal of Sorsogon's beauty and spirit, embodying the theme of the event by providing fresh perspectives on the idea of home and belonging.

Dr. Kilimanguru -

Dr. Kilimanguru is a dedicated advocate for public health awareness and education. A proud General Physician with a pre-medical degree in Communication Arts, he has garnered over 10 million followers across his social media platforms by delivering evidence-based medical information in a fun and accessible manner. Also known as "Doc Char," he has received multiple awards for his educational content, but he finds the greatest reward in the positive impact on his audience. Believing that every Filipino deserves access to accurate medical information, he avoids overly technical discussions. Despite the prevalence of health misinformation online, Dr. Kilimanguru is driven to create better content to counteract fake news. He hopes his efforts will help prevent lifestyle and infectious diseases from affecting Filipino families through his straightforward and engaging online presence.

dwta .

Singer-songwriter

Dwta, a Filipino singer-songwriter from Bicol, captivates audiences with her melodic harmonies and storytelling. Known as Bicol's enchantress, her tracks like 'Santigwar' and 'Padaba Taka' have earned recognition. Dwta embraces her Bicolano roots, finding joy in crafting songs in her native language to express emotions authentically. She draws inspiration from the vibrant culture, warm-hearted people, and stunning landscapes of Bicol. Dwta's music seamlessly blends cultural elements with relatable experiences, bridging connections worldwide. With pride in her Filipino identity, she creates a musical journey that resonates globally, celebrating traditions while touching hearts.

Ed Jimenez

Eduardo L. Jimenez is the head of corporate relations department of the Bacon-Manito Geothermal Power Plant. He graduated with a Juris Doctor degree and started working at EDC as secretary in 1990. Ed is a true blue Sorsoganon – but spent years in Leyte and Bacolod. He is married with three children. In his spare time, he likes to cook and tend to his garden.

Francis Timothy Mendoza

Father, Flight attendant

Francis Timothy Mendoza hails from Sorsogon and works as a flight attendant for the national airline. He's also a businessman, a loving husband, and a proud dad to a little girl. Despite his job taking him all over the world, Francis always makes sure to come back home to Sorsogon after his flights. On his days off, you can find him hanging out with his three-year-old daughter and taking care of business stuff. He's really good at balancing his work and personal life. Francis has always loved coming back to Sorsogon, even before he got married and became a dad. It's his way of chilling out and enjoying the fresh air of his hometown.

Herbie Aguas

Tourism regional director

Herbie B. Aguas, a dedicated public servant with 21 years of service, earned his baccalaureate degree from San Beda College and Aquinas University of Legazpi. He furthered his education with postgraduate courses at UP Diliman and Ateneo De Manila University. Formerly a Municipal Councilor and Local Chief Executive of Santo Domingo, Albay, Aguas was appointed Regional Director of the Department of Tourism Regional Office 5 in 2021. That same year, he received the Dangal ng Bayang Filipino Award as Outstanding Public Servant of the Year. Aguas has represented the region at various national and international expos, including the Salon Dela Plongee Sous Marine Dive Show in Paris and the DEMA Show in New Orleans in 2023. He is known for promoting diverse tourism initiatives in the Bicol region and Barrier-Free Tourism, focusing on enhancing gateway safety and security for tourists.

Jamil Mencias

Youth, Student

Jamil Mencias, a 22-year-old Mechanical Engineering student from Bulan, Sorsogon, is a multifaceted individual with a passion for dance, performance, and advocacy. Currently pursuing his bachelor's degree at Bicol University College of Engineering, he has been an active dancer for nearly a decade, participating in various groups. Presently, Jamil is a performer in a Sorsogon-based singing and dancing ensemble. Additionally, he has garnered titles in the pageant industry, advocating for youth causes and initiatives.

Justine Joy Bornel

Art advocate

As a beauty queen and biology graduate, Justine pursued business and art. Founding Brush Hour & Art Community, she transitioned from a college teacher to an art instructor, traveling to municipalities in the province of Sorsogon to teach art to individuals of all ages, delving into the realms of creativity. Now, she has established a haven for local artists to showcase and sell their creations.

Kenn "kennnnito" Dayandayan

Popularly known as "kennnnito" on TikTok, Ken Dayandayan is a 24-year-old full-time social media content creator. He rose to fame with his makeup tutorials for men, making significant strides in the beauty industry by representing men in cosmetics. What began as a hobby during the pandemic has now turned into a successful career, amassing over 600,000 followers across his social media platforms. Ken's videos challenge and redefine beauty standards, proving that makeup is for everyone, regardless of gender. His influence continues to grow as he breaks barriers in the beauty scene, one video at a time.

Lyqa Maravilla

Lyqa Maravilla, RPM, is an online educational content creator, author, podcast host, and resource speaker. After topping the 2013 Civil Service Exam, Lyqa began creating free content on YouTube to help people pass various exams, forming a community of learners called Team Lyqa. Known as Coach Lyqa, she travels across the Philippines as an EduCreator, motivational speaker, and teacher. With millions of subscribers on YouTube and other social media, she also teaches review classes and gives educational talks in cities like Davao, Tacloban, Iloilo, and Metro Manila. Lyqa's dedication earned her recognition as a YouTube NextUp winner in 2017 and as a panelist at YouTube EduCon in New Delhi. She was also named a YouTube and UNDP Creators for Change Ambassador for Asia-Pacific. Her "Get Hired" series, part of Google’s Digiskarteng Pinay project, helps Filipinas improve their lives. Lyqa aims to democratize education in the Philippines and beyond through her content on Math, English, and Logic.

Maricris Labayandoy

Maricris Digo-Labayandoy, also known as Akies, is not only a teacher but also an events host, writer, artist, business owner, mother, and advocate. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she founded The Kindness Station (TKS), which highlighted values of giving and empathy. This initiative started in Sorsogon City and expanded to over 40 barangays in Sorsogon and around 70 nationwide, earning national and international recognition.

Myke Celis

Life coach

Myke Celis, M.A. PCC, is a highly acclaimed Global Master Coach and bestselling author, recognized as a leading figure in the coaching world. He is known for his influential brand #bestmeever and advocacy for inclusivity within the LGBTQIA+ community. With expertise across various media platforms, Myke is the only Filipino with viral articles in the International Coaching Federation's blog and has been ranked among the top 30 Global Gurus in Coaching. He mentors top executives, celebrities, and coaches globally while holding a Master's Degree in Media Studies from the University of the Philippines Diliman. With certifications in coaching, NLP, and counseling, Myke continues to impact the coaching profession and beyond through his diverse expertise and advocacy efforts.

Rein Hillary Carrascal

Rein Hillary Carrascal, a BSBA Marketing Management graduate from Far Eastern University-Diliman, has excelled in various beauty pageants, including Daragang Magayon 2018 and as Miss Universe Philippines Sorsogon 2023. Beyond her pageant success, Rein has thrived as an events host, recording artist, and model with Empire PH & Mercator Talent. Her experiences, characterized by the highs and lows of a public life, led her to advocate for mental health and community well-being through Hapi L.I.F.E. Projects.

Rick Yvanovich

Rick Yvanovich, CEO of TRG International and CFO of Great People Inside, is not just a leader but a serial entrepreneur, business coach, mentor, and hypnotherapist with 40 years of experience across industries. Celebrating 30 years with TRG International, which serves clients in 80 countries, Rick is driven by his life purpose inspired by "Business As UnUsual." He's committed to transforming professionals for success in their personal and professional lives.

Sorsogon A-One Youth

The A-One Youth Program is a special program of the provincial government of Sorsogon where youth are trained to progress in their personality development, leadership and communication skills, and social awareness and engagement.