Recognizing Filipino OG Tech Content Creators Who Paved The Way For Us

Somebody recently liked this 2015 photo on my Instagram account, and when I looked at it again after such a long time, I felt a sudden rush of nostalgia mixed with deep gratitude. Sometimes, old photos remind us not just of a moment in time but also of the people and experiences that shaped the journey we’re on today.

(L-R) Yours truly, Myka Basco-Poynton, Carlo Ople, Sir Tony Velasquez, and Abe Olandres

I thought it would be a fitting way to start this month as well as the long Yuletide Season here in the Philippines by saying “Thank you” -- and by recognizing the amazing individuals who blazed the trail before me and those who have helped me along the way in this profession.

Although I launched TechPinas back in 2008, the truth is that I merely walked through a door that had long been opened by the amazing people who started this craft. They paved the road so that people like me, and many others, could follow.

Abe Olandres, whom I’ve always respectfully called the “Father of Philippine Tech Content Creation,” started Yugatech way back in 2002, when I was still a college student with big dreams. If it weren’t for his pioneering efforts — and his openness to mentor and train so many people in the industry — this field wouldn’t be where it is today. Abe is the True OG who set the bar and gave us all a clear direction to follow.

Then there’s Carlo Ople. Before launching Unbox PH in 2008, he already had Waukster (Online) / Waukeen, which served as a true hub for hardcore geeks, toy collectors, and gamers. I vividly remember reading Waukster and being fascinated by his gear and reviews. It was always a joy to read. Even now, Carlo remains a trailblazer, always at the forefront of digital marketing and spotting what’s hot and trendy. To the young ones reading this: if you want to see where it all began, check out Waukster Online — it’s still around. Learn from it. Cheers, Carlo!

Of course, I cannot forget Sir Tony Velasquez. Through his legendary tech show Future Perfect on ABS-CBN News Channel, he gave our industry a bigger stage by inviting insiders and experts to share their knowledge with the general public. Sir Tony has always been supportive of the tech community and his program inspired countless Filipinos to care about technology. I honestly miss Future Perfect so much and hope for the day it returns. Maraming salamat for everything, Sir Tony.

And then there’s Myka Poynton, along with our friends in the PR industry. They’ve always supported tech media, helping us reach more people with our reviews and features. Without our PR partners, tech content creation in the Philippines wouldn’t be as dynamic and colorful as it is today. Myka, thank you for trusting me through the years.

I also want to give a heartfelt shout-out to other OGs in Tech Media. Jayvee Fernandez of ABuggedLife, whose blog I avidly read back then, inspired me with his thoughtful takes on technology. And then there’s Rico Mosessgeld of TechnoGRA.ph, whose site stood out with its rare mix of hilarious and geeky tone. Rico, handed me my very first award as a tech blogger, something I will never forget. Maraming salamat for setting such a great example for all of us who followed.

So yes, before anything else this month, I just want to pause, look back, and say THANK YOU to all of you who made this journey possible. The Yuletide Season is a time of giving, but it’s also a time of remembering. And today, I remember the giants whose shoulders I stand on.

Here’s to gratitude, to legacy, and to continuing this craft with passion. Have a wonderful start of the Yuletide Season, everyone! Cheers!