The Creator and Influencer Council of the Philippines (CICP) is the country’s leading organization dedicated to professionalizing the creator and influencer industry.

Formed as a multi-sectoral, non-profit council, CICP brings together creators, influencers, agencies, brands, platforms, and institutions to foster a thriving, ethical, and sustainable creator economy.

We serve as a unifying voice for the Philippine creator community—elevating standards, promoting responsible influence, and cultivating a collaborative ecosystem that empowers creators to build meaningful careers and impactful digital narratives.

CICP: President
Company: Hepmil Philippines, Deputy General Manager
Contact: jel.directo@hepmil.com

Jel Directo is the President of the Creator and Influencer Council of the Philippines (CICP) and the Deputy General Manager of Hepmil Philippines, the company behind the popular digital media brand SGAG. With over a decade of experience in marketing, content strategy, and digital media, Jel is a dynamic leader at the intersection of brand building, creator advocacy, and entertainment.

At CICP, Jel leads with a strategic vision to elevate the Philippine creator economy by fostering collaboration between creators, agencies, brands, and platforms. She is committed to strengthening industry standards, empowering creators through education and policy, and positioning Filipino talent for long-term, sustainable success.

In her role at Hepmil, she plays a critical role in expanding regional operations and driving platform partnerships, creator monetization, and culturally resonant content that connects with Gen Z and millennial audiences.
Jel is known for her sharp strategic thinking, deep respect for creative communities, and ability to connect business objectives with human stories. She brings a future-focused mindset to both her corporate and council roles—ensuring the Philippines continues to grow as a vibrant hub for creators and digital storytellers.

CICP: Vice President for Internals
Company: Cebu Pacific

Mich de Guzman is the Director for Marketing and Customer Experience at Cebu Pacific, the Philippines’ leading airline. With over 15 years of experience in brand management, digital strategy, and integrated marketing communications, Mich has built a career anchored in innovation, data-driven storytelling, and customer-centric leadership. Her strategic work has helped drive Cebu Pacific’s growth, foster brand loyalty, and advance its digital transformation—ensuring the airline remains relevant and resonant in today’s fast-evolving consumer landscape.

At the Creator and Influencer Council of the Philippines (CICP), Mich serves as Vice President for Internals on the Executive Committee. In this capacity, she leads initiatives focused on internal governance, organizational development, and cross-functional alignment—ensuring that CICP operates with clarity, structure, and long-term sustainability. She also helps oversee member relations, internal communications, and council operations that strengthen CICP’s foundation as it scales.

Mich brings to CICP a powerful brand-side perspective, advocating for thoughtful, strategic collaboration between creators and organizations. She champions values-based marketing and believes that meaningful content can drive both business success and cultural impact. Through her work in both aviation and the creator economy, Mich continues to push boundaries in creativity, engagement, and purposeful digital leadership.

CICP: Vice President for Externals
Company: Blogapalooza

Ace Gapuz is the CEO of Blogapalooza, one of the Philippines’ leading influencer marketing companies and a pioneer in bridging brands with creators in authentic, impactful ways. With over a decade of experience in digital marketing, community-building, and influencer engagement, Ace is widely recognized as a trailblazer in the country’s creator economy. Her work has helped shape industry norms around ethical practices, creator-brand partnerships, and inclusive digital storytelling.

As Vice President for Externals on the Executive Committee of the Creator and Influencer Council of the Philippines (CICP), Ace leads the council’s strategic engagement with external stakeholders. She spearheads partnerships with brands, agencies, platforms, and government institutions—advancing CICP’s mission through collaboration, advocacy, and public-facing initiatives. She also plays a key role in positioning the council as a thought leader on national issues surrounding creator rights, ethical influence, and industry growth.

Through Blogapalooza and her work with CICP, Ace champions transparency, fair creator compensation, and the elevation of influencer marketing standards in the Philippines. A frequent speaker and mentor, she advocates for empowering creators with access, tools, and opportunities that enable long-term success—as professionals, storytellers, and changemakers in the digital age.

CICP: Secretary

Jaemy Mejia is a seasoned digital marketing leader driving digital transformation and elevated brand experiences at Colgate-Palmolive Philippines. With over 13 years of experience across brand communications, integrated marketing, content, and digital ecosystems, she consistently turns consumer insights into innovative, high-impact campaigns. Her expertise lies at the intersection of brand strategy and customer experience, helping brands connect meaningfully with their audiences through data-informed, purpose-driven digital strategies.

She also serves as Secretary of the Executive Committee at the Creator and Influencer Council of the Philippines (CICP), where she plays a key role in ensuring operational alignment, governance, and strategic continuity. Her work supports the council’s mission to expand its industry influence through transparency, structure, and collaboration.

A passionate advocate for inclusive, ethical, and sustainable digital ecosystems, Jaemy champions marketing practices that balance impact with integrity. Her dual lens as both corporate strategist and council leader enables her to bridge brand priorities with creator realities—shaping responsible, forward-thinking approaches to digital marketing

Through her work in both corporate and industry spaces, Jaemy continues to lead with insight, creativity, and values—helping shape a digital marketing landscape where brands, creators, and communities thrive together.

CICP: Treasurer
Company: Link Strategies

Kara Santiago Dagdag is the CEO and Co-Founder Link Strategies, a boutique communications firm specializing in integrated campaigns, media and creator relations, and brand campaign strategy. With more than a decade of experience across PR, corporate communications, and brand-building, Kara has led numerous award-winning campaigns that blend creativity, insight, and measurable business results. Her work reflects a deep understanding of how strategic communications can influence consumer behavior and build long-lasting brand equity.

As a Founding Director and Treasurer of CICP, Kara oversees the financial health and resource planning of the organization. She brings strong financial discipline, strategic foresight, and a growth mindset to ensure that CICP’s programs are sustainable, transparent, and impactful. She also plays a key role in strengthening the organization’s partnerships by helping brands and agencies see the long-term value of engaging with the creator economy.

Kara is a vocal advocate for professional standards and fair compensation in the influencer industry. She believes in cultivating relationships based on trust and mutual growth—between creators and brands, and between organizations and their audiences.

Through her work in CICP and her firm, Kara helps move the industry forward by encouraging ethical collaboration and innovation rooted in cultural relevance and social responsibility.

CICP: Public Relations Officer

Inka Magnaye is a renowned content creator, voiceover artist, and advocate whose powerful storytelling and authenticity have made her one of the most influential voices in Philippine digital media. With a background in professional voice acting and a passion for meaningful content, Inka gained nationwide recognition for her viral videos and has since built a personal brand anchored in empathy, transparency, and social advocacy.

As Public Relations Officer (PRO) of CICP, Inka represents the creator community within the council’s leadership—amplifying the voices of digital talents and ensuring their lived experiences are reflected in strategic conversations. Her presence brings authenticity and empathy to CICP’s communications and public-facing initiatives.

Beyond her content work, Inka is an active mental health advocate and a champion of responsible influence. She has collaborated with major brands, non-profits, and government agencies to use her platform for education, empowerment, and change.

At CICP, she advocates for creator wellbeing, digital literacy, and fair treatment across the ecosystem. Inka’s voice continues to redefine what it means to be a content creator in today’s digital age—where vulnerability is strength, influence is responsibility, and storytelling has the power to heal and unite communities.

CICP: Board Director; Government Relations Committee Director

Maria Irene Aserios is a multi-awarded, internationally recognized blogger, public relations consultant, social media strategist and digital advocate best known as the founder of Mindanaoan.com, one of the most established lifestyle and advocacy blogs in Southern Philippines. With over a decade of experience in strategic communications, government relations, and community engagement, Irene has worked with national politicians, national brands, NGOs, and government agencies to amplify regional voices and promote inclusive narratives.

As a Board Director of the Creator and Influencer Council of the Philippines (CICP), Irene also serves as the Committee Director for Government Relations. In this role, she leads initiatives focused on training government information officers to become effective communicators in the digital age—positioning them as responsible creators capable of engaging with social media audiences. The committee also facilitates discussions around ethical collaboration between government entities and influencers, promoting transparency, trust, and values-based communication.

Irene brings a vital regional perspective to the board, advocating for creators outside of urban centers and championing digital inclusion across geographic and socio-economic lines. She is passionate about equipping communities with the knowledge and tools to thrive in the digital economy.

Through her work at CICP, Irene continues to advance a future where meaningful, ethical, and inclusive communication empowers creators and public servants alike.

CICP: Board Director; Platform Innovations Committee Director
Company: META

Rai Clemente is the Strategic Partner Manager for Global Partnerships at META, where she helps drive the success of digital creators across platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Threads. With a strong background in platform dynamics, digital trends, and creator education, Rai supports the development of programs, tools, and strategies that enable creators to build sustainable and impactful digital presences.

As a Board Director of the Creator and Influencer Council of the Philippines (CICP), Rai also serves as the Committee Director for the Platform Innovations Committee. In this role, she leads efforts to promote a multi-platform approach to creator education and training—ensuring that creators stay informed on platform trends, upcoming changes, and best practices for adaptation. The committee facilitates forecasting of potential platform shifts and fosters dialogue with creators on how to evolve their content, formats, and strategies accordingly.

Rai is committed to building a creator ecosystem that is informed, resilient, and future-ready. She advocates for transparency, safety, and platform literacy across all levels of the creator journey. Her expertise bridges platform innovation with practical community needs, making her an essential voice in helping creators stay agile and aligned with the fast-changing digital landscape.

CICP: Board Director; Education & Training Committee Director
Company: Tier One

Brian Dacanay is a results-driven marketing, sales, and business development leader with over a decade of experience in the media industry. He has a proven track record of accelerating growth and optimizing efficiency across global organizations, including top-tier multinational agencies Dentsu and GroupM. He combines deep expertise in strategic marketing with hands-on startup experience, having held a regional leadership role at ONE Championship, a premier global sports media property, and currently at one of the fastest-growing esports and lifestyle new media companies, Tier One Entertainment. He is adept at scaling revenue, forging high-impact partnerships, and delivering data-driven solutions in dynamic, fast-paced environments.

Brian alongside the education committee aims to deliver quality discourse on the different aspects of the creator economy and ensure that all creators are supported with the right information infrastructure.

CICP: Board Director

Jako de Leon is a pioneering content producer, creative strategist, and one of the foundational figures in the evolution of digital content in the Philippines. As the founder of Paper Bug TV and a long-time collaborator with many of the country’s top creators, Jako played a key role in shaping the early YouTube landscape—establishing creator communities and storytelling formats that continue to influence content today.

With more than 15 years of experience across digital media, talent development, and production, Jako brings institutional knowledge and creative depth to the CICP Board. He serves as the Committee Director for Education & Training, where he oversees the development of creator programs in partnership with major platforms such as Meta, TikTok, and YouTube. The committee also leads the creation of ASC-aligned training materials and mentorship programs to support the growth and sustainability of emerging creators.

Jako is deeply committed to building a culture of professionalism and peer support within the creator space. He champions ethical storytelling, fair monetization, and knowledge-sharing as pillars of a thriving creator economy.

At CICP, he provides strategic insight into how education, mentorship, and collaboration can empower the next generation of creators to succeed with purpose, resilience, and integrity.

CICP: Board Director

Robi Domingo is one of the Philippines’ most recognizable television hosts and digital personalities, with a career that bridges mainstream media, live entertainment, and online content creation. Known for his charisma, thoughtfulness, and adaptability, Robi has successfully transitioned from traditional broadcasting into the fast-evolving world of digital influence—building a personal brand rooted in authenticity and public service.

As a Board Director of the Creator and Influencer Council of the Philippines (CICP), Robi also leads as the Committee Director for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). Under his guidance, the committee promotes responsible influence, champions voter education, and raises awareness on urgent issues such as cybercrime, online identity theft, and safe digital practices. The committee also spearheads #CreatorsUnitedPH, a collaborative initiative that mobilizes creators to support communities during calamities and national emergencies.

Robi is a strong advocate for using influence with intention. Beyond entertainment, he actively supports youth development, civic engagement, and social impact initiatives. He believes creators have a unique role in shaping public dialogue and empowering audiences to act with purpose.

Through CICP, Robi helps ensure that influence goes beyond visibility—grounded instead in responsibility, education, and meaningful action for the greater good.

CICP: Board Director

Erwan Heussaff is a digital creator, entrepreneur, and the founder of FEATR, a media company dedicated to telling compelling stories about Filipino culture, cuisine, and community through TV-Quality series and episodes. As one of the most respected voices in Philippine content creation, Erwan has redefined the creative landscape by producing purpose-driven, cinematic content that celebrates Filipino heritage and resonates with global audiences.

As a Board Director of the Creator and Influencer Council of the Philippines (CICP), Erwan also serves as the Committee Director for Education & Training. In this role, he leads the development of structured programs for creators in partnership with platforms such as Meta, TikTok, and YouTube. The committee also oversees the creation of ASC-compliant training materials and a mentorship program designed to support the growth and professionalization of emerging creators.

Erwan is a strong advocate for elevating content quality and industry standards. He believes in investing in creator development—not just creatively, but in terms of strategy, ethics, and sustainability. Through his leadership at CICP, he contributes to building a future-ready creator community that values craft, storytelling integrity, and long-term growth in an ever-evolving digital landscape.

CICP: Board Director

Apple Esplana-Manansala is President and Chief Executive Producer at The New Channel (TNC) Media Corp., an emerging online new media platform built to empower professionals, entrepreneurs, and creators to share stories that promote the use of digital only for good. At the same time, Apple owns and co-manages PuzzleBox BPO, a 12-year old digital outsourcing company.

With a strong background in marketing, business development and digital leadership, Apple merges innovation with advocacy-driven projects —giving voice to online communities and changemakers.

As a Board Director of CICP, Apple also is co-Committee Director for Membership. In this role, she supports the council’s efforts to strengthen member engagement and growth programs.

Apple advocates for inclusion in the digital space —giving birth to Global Women Who RULE —an advocacy project that spotlights empowered Filipino women around the world. She believes that every storyteller deserves a platform. She strongly promotes the use of one’s voice/influence through the ability to inform, amplify and touch the lives of others for the better.

Through CICP, Apple continues to champion a creator economy that is inclusive, collaborative, and impact-driven.

CICP: Board Director

Jeio Sabado works in PR and Digital at Jollibee, one of the Philippines’ most iconic brands and a global symbol of Filipino culture and joy. With a 10-year career rooted in digital and social media brand strategy, Jeio leads initiatives that connect Jollibee’s mission of joy with a new generation of consumers—through Creator and Influencer campaigns that are emotionally resonant, culturally grounded, and digitally innovative.

As a Board Director of the Creator and Influencer Council of the Philippines (CICP), Jeio also serves as the Committee Director for PR & Marketing. In this role, he leads the council’s efforts to strengthen CICP’s digital presence, manage its communication strategies, and ensure the public dissemination of council events, programs, and advocacy work. His team oversees the council’s digital platforms, ensuring they reflect CICP’s values and amplify its impact across the industry.

Jeio is a firm believer in the power of creator-brand synergy. He advocates for responsible influence, transparent partnerships, and marketing that empowers both creators and brands to tell authentic stories. Through CICP, he brings strategic insight into how influence can be used not just for visibility—but for connection, credibility, and cultural relevance in the Creator and Collaboration age.

CICP: Board Director

Andrew Sha is a public relations and communications leader with over fifteen years of experience crafting impactful campaigns for Fortune 500 companies and local conglomerates. As the Managing Director of RedTorch Communications, he has driven the agency's growth, specializing in digital public relations, influencer marketing, and corporate communications. Under his leadership, RedTorch has collaborated with prominent brands like Unilever, Coca-Cola, and Jollibee Group, delivering innovative strategies that resonate with target consumers.​

He serves on the Board of Directors of the Creator and Influencer Council of the Philippines (CICP) and contributes his expertise to the Marketing and Public Relations Committee. Drew's commitment to excellence and his forward-thinking approach continue to shape the communications landscape, positioning RedTorch, its clients, and CICP at the forefront of the industry.

CICP: Board Director

Bryan Yap is a strategic marketing executive at Republiq Group of Companies (RGC), where he spearheads brand transformation and digital modernization efforts in a traditionally offline industry. With a strong background in marketing, communications, and entrepreneurship, Bryan represents a new generation of leaders reshaping how legacy sectors connect with digital platforms and creator-driven storytelling.

In his role as Board Director and Committee Director for PR & Marketing at the Creator and Influencer Council of the Philippines (CICP), Bryan focuses on expanding the council’s reach beyond Metro Manila. He leads initiatives aimed at strengthening regional presence by championing nationwide programming that ensures equitable access to resources, training, and representation for creators across the country.

Under his leadership, the committee actively supports the planning and promotion of regional events, workshops, and growth programs that spotlight and elevate local talent. Bryan’s advocacy is rooted in the belief that the creator economy should be inclusive, accessible, and purpose-driven. He champions collaborations that empower creators across diverse sectors—from lifestyle and business to education and social impact—helping to broaden the narrative of influence to include regional voices and communities.

Through his work at RGC and CICP, Bryan is helping to redefine influence in the digital age—proving that creativity, innovation, and impact thrive far beyond the capital.

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