Excitement is building as John Vincent Gastanes, a prominent thought leader and innovator from Palawan, is in the running to become a housemate on the upcoming season of Pinoy Big Brother (PBB). Fans and supporters are eagerly waiting to see if he will be chosen to enter the famous “Bahay ni Kuya.”
Pinoy Big Brother, the Filipino adaptation of the globally successful reality TV show Big Brother, features a group of participants living together in a specially designed house known as “Bahay ni Kuya.” Monitored 24/7 by cameras and microphones, the housemates face various challenges and tasks that test their limits, while their every move is broadcasted to the nation. The show’s unique format has captivated audiences, making it a staple in Filipino pop culture.
About John Vincent Gastanes
John Vincent Gastanes is a visionary thought leader with a strong focus on innovation and community-based management. As the CEO of a registered tech company in the Philippines, he dedicates his efforts to combating poverty and empowering marginalized groups. He started his career as a restaurant waiter in the United States before an opportunity brought him back to the Philippines to work with the government. This experience inspired his transition into development innovation and agri-technology.
Gastanes founded Project Zacchaeus, a tech company that oversees three successful brands: Juana Fresh, Eco Kolek, and Farm Konek. These companies have gained substantial value and international support from partners such as USAID and GGGI of South Korea, attracting investments from various Angel Investment Groups and Venture Capitalists.
In their first year, Gastanes secured at least PHP20 million in seed funding for the Minimum Viable Products (MVPs) he developed and implemented.
With a Master’s degree in Development Management from the Asian Institute of Management, specializing in community-based design thinking processes and social entrepreneurship in the tech industry, Gastanes excels in design thinking, innovative business models, project management, and strategic execution. Currently, he leads Farm Konekt as its CEO, a platform fostering innovation and economic partnerships for smallholder farmers.
In recognition of his significant contributions to sustainability, Gastanes received the 2023 Puerto Princesa City Mayor’s Award. His advocacy for servant leadership, personal development, and success through serving others drives all his endeavors, aiming for a positive societal impact.
The Road to PBB Gen11
This year, a total of 20,157 aspiring housemates participated in on-ground auditions, while 15,749 submitted their applications online. From July 15 to July 19, housemates for the new season will be revealed via “Star Hunt The Audition Show,” hosted by Melai Cantiveros. The show will showcase the journeys of thousands of aspiring housemates and Star Magic hopefuls, revealing one housemate per day.
The grand kickoff of “PBB Gen11” is set for July 20 and will be aired on TV5. As the nation waits in anticipation, the question remains: Will Palaweno John Vincent Gastanes make it to Pinoy Big Brother? Stay tuned to find out!
John’s Mission and Vision
John’s decision to join PBB goes beyond the typical aspirations of fame and recognition. He aims to introduce his advocacies and inspire the new generation about the power of sustainability and pursuing dreams not just for personal ambition but also for the greater good. He wants to be known not just for his company but for the wisdom and knowledge he has acquired, sharing with the mass media what can be achieved regardless of age.
By reaching out to the younger generation through PBB, John hopes to teach them about creating innovative business models, share insights about modern approaches in entrepreneurship, and create a platform for impact-driven investments. His goal is to show that as a young innovator, he is not just a typical entrepreneur but a thought leader on social impact and positive change.
