While most of the world is still catching up, Rod Albores says the real advantage belongs to those who start building now.

In every wave of innovation, early adopters are often the ones who shape the rules. They see opportunity where others see uncertainty. They build while others wait. In the world of Web3, that moment is now.

At Ateneo de Davao University’s SBG Week 2025, students heard this message firsthand. Rod Albores, Peaq Philippines Ambassador and founder of RER DAO, laid out why the next generation holds a unique advantage in the decentralized era. According to him, being early in Web3 is not just a lucky break. It is a strategic edge.

The space is wide-open

While many still associate Web3 with unfamiliar terms like blockchain or NFTs, Rod emphasized that this new internet is not as distant or exclusive as it seems. In fact, only a tiny fraction of the global population is currently involved.

"Only 5% of the total population globally are into Web3... Meaning, you are early adopters of this."

That number matters. It means that those who take the time to understand, build, and create now are positioning themselves far ahead of the curve. Whether in launching a project, starting a community, or joining an existing ecosystem, early adopters have more freedom, more visibility, and more influence.

Rod encouraged students not to underestimate what this timing means. They are not late. They are actually among the first.

Web3 rewards initiative

Rod’s message went beyond market timing. For him, Web3 is a playground for people who want to act, not just observe. In a decentralized world, traditional gatekeepers hold less power. What matters is what you contribute.

"When you engage yourself to Web3, learn more about it... then that's the start."

That engagement can take many forms. Some may experiment with decentralized applications. Others may contribute to open communities or launch socially driven startups like Waste to Earth, a project from RER DAO that rewards proper waste segregation. What they all share is a commitment to solving real problems through tech.

The earlier someone starts, the faster they learn, and the more likely they are to help define what this new ecosystem becomes.

Leadership comes from showing up early

Rod also pointed out that being early is not just about technical advantage. It is about shaping culture. Web3 is still forming its norms, values, and direction. Those who get involved today can help steer where it goes.

"Once you know this already, then you become part of the game."

Rod believes that Filipinos have the creativity, talent, and community-driven mindset to take the lead. But to do that, they need to start seeing themselves not just as users of technology but as builders. That starts with awareness, then curiosity, and eventually action.

The reward is more than just being first. It is having a say in what comes next.

This is your window

Opportunities like this do not come around often. Rod reminded the audience that while Web3 is still in its early stages, it will not stay that way forever. Eventually, the rest of the world will catch up. By then, the foundations will already be in place, built by those who chose to act early.

For students and young professionals in the Philippines, this is not just a moment to learn about Web3. It is a moment to lead it.