Filipino Creator Abi Marquez Shines at 1 Billion Followers Summit in Dubai

Dubai, UAE – Filipino digital entrepreneur and creator Abi Marquez made waves at the 1 Billion Followers Summit in Dubai, taking part in multiple sessions across the three-day global gathering of the creator economy. Managed by NYMA Talent Management, Abi represented the Philippines on an international stage, celebrating Filipino creativity and influence.

Ahead of the summit, Abi expressed her excitement online, particularly about seeing her own billboard in Dubai—a surreal “pinch me” moment that she called a proud milestone for Filipino creators making their mark globally.

From Lockdown Kitchen to Global Fame

Abi’s rise to international prominence began during the COVID-19 lockdowns, when she shared home-cooked pasta recipes on social media. Many Filipino households tuned in, drawn to her approachable style and dishes that were uncommon in local kitchens. “Filipinos loved it because no one really cooks non-Filipino food at home,” Abi shared. Her content resonated with viewers hungry for culinary exploration, quickly growing her follower base into the millions.

Memorable Moments with Uncle Roger

One of the summit’s highlights was Abi joining comedian Nigel Ng, better known as Uncle Roger, onstage during the kickoff roast session. In a playful moment, Uncle Roger quipped that the Philippines has only “three influential Filipinos: Abi, Manny Pacquiao, and Jollibee,” sending the audience into laughter and cementing Abi’s role as a standout participant.

Later, Abi moderated a fireside chat with Uncle Roger in Behind the Scenes of Uncle Roger: How Fried Rice Built a Global Brand, exploring creator storytelling, content strategy, and brand building.

Collaborations and Global Connections

Abi also shared the stage with Apple Crider and Erika Kullberg in the Mini Keynote session The Playbook for Seven-Figure Partnerships, discussing how creators can scale partnerships through audience-first, story-driven collaborations.

In Dubai, she teamed up with a Nigerian chef who specializes in Filipino cuisine, showcasing the increasingly globalized nature of food and creator culture. “It’s amazing to see the world coming together through food and creativity,” Abi said.

Outside the sessions, Abi connected with prominent global personalities, including comedian Max Amini, viral sensation Logan “the Cucumber Guy,” and creator economy leader Samir Chaudry. She also expressed gratitude for the hospitality she received in the UAE. “People were incredibly warm and welcoming,” she said.

A Milestone for Filipino Creators

Abi’s participation in the summit adds to her growing list of international achievements. She is a Forbes 30 Under 30 honouree, Webby Award winner, James Beard Media Awards nominee, and recipient of WIBA’s Food Creator of the Year, boasting a global following of over 10 million.

“Dubai was unreal,” Abi said. “It’s such a big moment to be in global spaces like this. I’m proud to represent Filipino creators, and even more grateful to show that our stories—and our food—can travel anywhere.”

Her presence at the 1 Billion Followers Summit underscores an important message: Filipino creators are not just participating on the world stage—they are thriving and being celebrated for their creativity, resilience, and global influence.