New York – July 23, 2024 – IIRR is pleased to announce the appointment of Juan Paolo Villonco to its Board of Directors. Mr. Villonco, a distinguished entrepreneur, lawyer, and policy advisor, brings a wealth of experience and expertise that will contribute significantly to the organization’s mission of empowering rural communities.
Mr. Villonco is the President of Astro Robotics and holds the distinction of being the first Filipino graduate of Stanford Law School, where he obtained his Master of Laws degree in 2014. He is also the co-founder and CEO of Ignition, the Philippines’ first venture studio. His entrepreneurial ventures include Ignition, Astro Robotics, and Carbon X, each focused on innovation, technology, and sustainable development.
“I am honored to join the IIRR Board and contribute to its mission of sustainable development and community empowerment,” said Mr. Villonco. “I believe that by leveraging technology and fostering inclusive growth, we can uplift rural communities and ensure they are active participants in the global transition into the fourth industrial revolution.”
As an entrepreneur, Mr. Villonco has business interests in real estate, consultancy services, technology, and sustainable finance. Ignition, his venture studio, provides comprehensive business solutions to entrepreneurs, enabling them to focus on innovation. Astro Robotics, in partnership with Telexistence, aims to commercialize robotics, AI, and AR/VR technologies in the Philippines. Carbon X focuses on removing carbon from the atmosphere through innovative financial models and sustainable developments.
Mr. Villonco began his legal career at Siguion Reyna Montecillo and Ongsiako Law Firm, one of the oldest and most prestigious law firms in the Philippines. He has advised various Philippine government agencies on policy and has been a prominent figure in legal and entrepreneurial circles. He also serves as a professor of law at Far Eastern University, teaching Start-up Law and Technology Law.
“Mr. Villonco’s extensive experience in law, technology, and entrepreneurship will be invaluable to IIRR as we continue to drive innovative solutions for rural development,” said Emily Cheng, Interim Board Chair of IIRR. “His commitment to sustainable growth and inclusive development aligns perfectly with our mission of empowering rural communities to overcome poverty and improve their quality of life.”
“We are thrilled to welcome Juan Paolo Villonco to our Board of Directors,” said Peter Williams, President of IIRR. “His vision and leadership in leveraging technology for inclusive growth will greatly enhance our efforts to empower rural communities. We look forward to his contributions in advancing our initiatives.”
Mr. Villonco holds an Economics degree from Ateneo de Manila University and a J.D. from Ateneo de Manila University School of Law. He has served as Chairman of the Young Professionals Committee of the American Chamber of Commerce and as a Board member of the Stanford Alumni Association of the Philippines.
