Hiraya Network: Aptos Foundation’s bold move to foster Web3 talent in the Philippines

In a game-changing development for the local tech scene, the Aptos Foundation officially launched the Hiraya Network on Thursday, March 27. This isn’t just another blockchain initiative – it’s a comprehensive platform designed to nurture Filipino talent and boost projects within the Aptos ecosystem, offering much more than funding alone.

The Philippines, with its youthful population of 110 million and median age of just 25, is perfectly positioned to become a blockchain powerhouse. The Hiraya Network aims to tap into this potential, aligning with the country’s aspirations to become Asia’s blockchain capital.

“With the launch of the Hiraya Network, we see a powerful opportunity to nurture Filipino talent, explore real-world blockchain applications, and drive economic empowerment through blockchain and Web3,” said Roxanne Aviñante, Senior Science Research Specialist at DOST-ASTI. “We’re excited to support this initiative and look forward to how it will shape the future of blockchain in the country.”

Backed by the Department of Science and Technology – Advanced Science and Technology Institute (DOST-ASTI) and the Blockchain Lead Organization and Knowledge Center (The BLOKC), the initiative focuses on three key areas: community engagement through events and workshops; developer nurturing through university partnerships, hackathons, and open-source projects; and strategic collaborations with startups, academic institutions, and venture capital firms.

Ash Pampati, Head of Ecosystem at Aptos Foundation, highlighted the strategic importance of this launch: “This launch enables Aptos to establish its entry into the vibrant Philippines market. By empowering local talent and providing community-first support, we will see the next great founders emerge. With the Hiraya network, we invite builders, entrepreneurs, educators, and creators to build on the world’s most performant blockchain.”

Filipino blockchain enthusiasts will now have direct access to Aptos Foundation’s global programs and resources, including grants, accelerators, and the specialized Aptos LFM program for token generation event preparations.

Mark Hugh Neri, country lead for Hiraya Network, shared his vision: “Our goal with Hiraya Network is to take what we have built from the past years and take it to the next level. Together with our ever-growing community of developers, mentors, creatives, academic and industry partners and all of those who have been supporting the group since day one, we are going to make significant moves with Aptos.”

In for the long run

During the press conference, The BLOKC co-founder Eli Becislao emphasized the importance of this initiative: “We’re very fortunate that we’re supported by foundations like Aptos Foundation and Aptos Labs to bring opportunities to the Philippines.” He pointed out that while the Philippines is rich in tech talent, developers often lack access to necessary resources for successful blockchain projects.

Becislao noted a critical challenge: “There’s money, and there are foundations ready and willing to support. But the problem is that we don’t have enough eligible projects and startups to present to them.” The Hiraya Network aims to bridge this gap by identifying and developing promising projects, ensuring sustained support for blockchain innovation in the country.

Success measured by real impact

For Becislao, economic impact is the ultimate measure of success. “We don’t care if we produce 100 developers for Aptos in six months – as long as those 100 developers are hired and employed within the Aptos ecosystem. That’s economic impact for us,” he explained. When Filipinos secure high-paying jobs or when startups raise millions, it creates a ripple effect throughout the economy.

Partnerships that empower communities

The Hiraya Network extends beyond Manila’s tech hubs through provincial roadshows aimed at discovering untapped talent. “We’re looking for fresh, bright minds who are hungry and eager to learn – those who might not have had the opportunities that those here in the big cities have,” Becislao added.

These roadshows bring workshops, mentorship, and resources directly to local communities, creating pathways for talented individuals to join the Web3 ecosystem regardless of location.

Beyond cryptocurrency: Reshaping blockchain perceptions

A key mission for Hiraya Network is changing perceptions about blockchain technology. Thomas Chou, Head of Marketing, APAC & MENA of Aptos Foundation, emphasized that blockchain extends far beyond cryptocurrency trading. The technology is making significant inroads in supply chain management, healthcare record-keeping, and voting systems.

Education stands at the center of this mission. Many Filipinos associate blockchain exclusively with volatile crypto prices or scams. The initiative aims to shift this narrative by showcasing real-world applications, particularly in remittances, which could reduce costs for millions of OFWs sending money home.

Blockchain could also transform government services, enabling instant verification of land titles or business registrations without lengthy paperwork. Through educational campaigns and diverse application support, the Hiraya Network aims to demonstrate how this technology can address real challenges facing Filipino communities and businesses.

Interested parties can join and learn more about The Hiraya Network through their X account at https://x.com/HirayaNetwork  and Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/hirayanetwork

- Advertisement -

About Aptos Foundation

Aptos Foundation is dedicated to supporting the development of the Aptos protocol, decentralized network, and driving engagement with the Aptos ecosystem. By unlocking a blockchain with seamless usability, Aptos Foundation aims to bring the benefits of decentralization to the masses.

To learn more, visit their official website at https://aptosfoundation.org