Influential guest speakers and panelists bring expertise to the SiGMA Asia conference

SiGMA Asia Manila premierewhich will be held this July from the 19th to the 22nd, at the SMX Convention Centre, has generated significant interest in the industry, with an array of household names confirmed to attend the 2-day conference.

A expert-led agenda will see a large number of well-known influencers, policy makers, academics and thought leaders take on trending topics in Southeast Asia’s online and land-based gaming sector. From ensuring compliance, and integrating AI into future regulations to the role Integrated Resorts play in economic development, there is a lot for delegates to do.

Leading the pack was the opening keynote delivered by Alejandro H. Tengco, Chairman and CEO at regulator-operator PAGCOR, with further keynotes and panels throughout the day from well-known personalities such as Dr. Sara Al Madani, who stands out for her drive to empower aspiring entrepreneurs in the UAE, Kelvin Lester K. Lee, Commissioner, Securities and Exchange Commission (Philippines), Josh Yugen, visionary entrepreneur and Founder of YUGEN PR & XPEDITION Magazine, Nameer Khan – Series Founder , Advisor & Investor who is Co-founder & Chair of the MENA Fintech Association, James Rumohr – Co-Founder of Kumu, and Megan Pormer, technology investor, entrepreneur, and motivational speaker.

Participants can also expect to meet some of the most famous faces in the Philippines, including; thisisatin, a young entrepreneur making waves for her creativity and drive, Kylie Verzosa, a well-known actress and mental health advocate, and Michele Gumabao – a star athlete for the Premier Volleyball League’s Creamline Cool Smashers.

Influential guest speakers and panelists bring expertise to the SiGMA Asia conference

Alejando H. Tengco – Chairman and CEO of PAGCOR

Tengco, which took over from Andrea Domingo as Chairman and CEO of Philippine Amusement and Gaming Company (PAGCOR) last August, will deliver the opening remarks for the inaugural SiGMA Asia conference in Manila. His keynote address aims to spark important discussions about the future of the gaming industry in Southeast Asia. Tengco’s considerable knowledge, experience will provide invaluable insight into the challenges and opportunities facing the gaming industry in the region.

Under his guidance PAGCOR has achieved a remarkable milestone. Notably, the organization’s total revenue for 2022 soared to a record-breaking figure of P58.96 billion ($1 billion), representing a substantial increase of 66% over the previous year. Consequently, PAGCOR’s contribution to nation-building has increased by an impressive 51%.

Tengco will also appear as a cover story for SiGMA Magazine this July.

Kelvin Lester K. Lee – Commissioner, Securities and Exchange Commission (Philippines)

Atti. Kelvin Lester Lee is Commissioner of the Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission, Manila Times Business Columnist, Professor of Law on Corporate Governance, and Lecturer in Corporate Law for various Compulsory Continuing Legal Education (MCLE) programs.

Atti. Lee is the Supervisory Commissioner of the Department of Markets and Securities Regulation (MSRD) and the Department of Information & Communication Technology (ICTP). He also spearheaded the establishment of (and currently oversees) the International Affairs and Protocol Division (IAPD) and the Commission’s PhiliFintech Innovation Office (PhiliFiNNO).

In 2022, he was selected as Senior Fellow Lee Kuan Yew in Public Service from the National University of Singapore, and was recognized as a Blockchain Champion by Blockchain
Philippine Council. In 2023, he was awarded as Outstanding Fintech Innovation Leader in the Philippines during the Asia Digital Finance Forum and Awards. He also recently won the Gold Stevie Award for Thought Leader of the Year and the Grand Stevie Award for the highest scoring nomination from the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards.

Catch him keynote on the 20th at 12.45pm, where he will be talking about AI and the future of regulation – discussing how the Securities and Exchange Commission can be adapted for the digital age.

Sara al Madani – Emirati Entrepreneur

Dr Sara Al Madani is a prominent figure in the fields of technology and entrepreneurship. She has made significant contributions to the business world – becoming a board member of the UAE SME Council in 2015 and the youngest board member to join the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry in 2014. As a technology entrepreneur, Sara has demonstrated her visionary mindset by founding and leading several successful venture. His expertise lies in leveraging technology to streamline processes and drive business growth. Not only has she achieved incredible success in her own business, but Sara is also passionate about inspiring and empowering aspiring entrepreneurs. Through his public speaking mentorship and engagement program, he shares his invaluable insight and experience, motivating others to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. Sara Al Madani’s work is a testament to her dedication, determination and ability to create positive change in the industry.

Al Madani is a well-known speaker at many universities, colleges and institutes. In 2021 he was named the most influential leader by the World One Asia leaders summit, winning the Pride of UAE Award from Herald Global and Motivational Influencer of the Year from FilmFare in 2023.

Josh Yugen – Founder of YUGEN PR & XPEDITION Magazine

Josh Yugen is a visionary entrepreneur and founder of Yugen PR, a highly respected public relations agency. With a deep understanding of the power of storytelling and effective communication, Josh has built a reputation for his strategic approach to brand promotion and reputation management. Through Yugen PR, he has helped companies and individuals craft compelling narratives that resonate with their target audience. Josh’s expertise lies in leveraging traditional and digital media platforms to generate broad visibility and positive brand perception. His innovative strategies and keen understanding of the evolving media landscape have earned him recognition as a trusted advisor to the industry. Josh Yugen’s entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to excellence continue to drive Yugen PR’s success, making him a prominent figure in the world of public relations.

Yugen is also the first Southeast Asian to own a Dubai-grown luxury travel and fashion publication (XPEDITION Magazine), and the franchise holder of 3 Miss Universe countries namely Bahrain, Egypt and Pakistan.

Nameer Khan – Serial Founder, Advisor & Investor

Nameer Khan is an influential figure in the fintech landscape and holds the distinguished position of Chair of the MENA Fintech Association (MFTA). As one of the Top 20 fintech influencers in the Middle East, Nameer has made significant contributions to the development and growth of the fintech industry in the region, partnering strategically with regional regulators and central banks to build a robust fintech framework. With his extensive knowledge and expertise, he plays a critical role in shaping the fintech ecosystem, driving collaboration between key stakeholders and driving innovation. Through his leadership of the MFTA, Nameer strives to create an enabling environment for fintech startups and entrepreneurs to thrive, while also advocating for policies that promote financial inclusion and technological advancement. His efforts have not only earned him recognition, but also positioned him as a trusted voice and driving force behind the fintech revolution in the Middle East.

He has served as an advisor to several top banks in the Middle East and has founded and delivered AI and Digital Transformation programs for leading Financial Centres.

Megan Pormer – Technology investor, entrepreneur, and motivational speaker

Megan Pormer is an important figure in the world of technology investment and entrepreneurship. With a keen eye for promising ventures, he has established himself as a successful technology investor, supporting and nurturing innovative startups. Megan’s ability to identify emerging trends and disruptive technologies has allowed her to make strategic investments that have yielded significant returns. Megan’s entrepreneurial journey is characterized by her drive, determination and passion to harness technology to solve real-world problems. Through his investments and entrepreneurial endeavors, he not only contributes to the growth of the tech ecosystem but also inspires and empowers aspiring entrepreneurs to pursue their own ventures. Megan Pormer’s role as a technology investor and entrepreneur demonstrates her forward-thinking mindset and commitment to shaping the future of the industry.

In 2022 Pormer collaborated with EarthFund DAO to launch the Women’s Empowerment DAO to help raise money to send four women who have suffered abuse and trauma to a 3-day event to help them heal and overcome their pasts. Megan Pormer is also a model, actress, doctor, television personality and cancer activist who won Miss Dubai in 2019.

James Rumohr – One of the Founders of Kumu

James Rumohr is the co-founder of Kumu, a popular social media and live streaming platform based in the Philippines. With his visionary mindset and entrepreneurial spirit, Rumohr played a key role in establishing Kumu as a leading platform for connecting and engaging with audiences through live interactive content. His passion for cultivating meaningful relationships and empowering content creators has been instrumental in the platform’s success, making Kumu a vibrant community where users can showcase their talents, participate in live events, and build genuine relationships with a diverse audience.