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Manila Bulletin devider Entertainment devider Celebrities devider Via Dominico strengthens Startok's position as a rising force in the PH livestream commerce industry

Via Dominico strengthens Startok's position as a rising force in the PH livestream commerce industry

Published Dec 20, 2025 10:28 am
Startok, a fast-growing livestream talent incubation agency in the Philippines, marked a significant milestone with its recent contract signing event, formally welcoming its second batch of creator talents.
From L-R Ms. Belle Zoleta, Ms. Shayn Mangilin, Ms. Via Dominico (StarTok Founder), Dr. Ella Roxas
From L-R Ms. Belle Zoleta, Ms. Shayn Mangilin, Ms. Via Dominico (StarTok Founder), Dr. Ella Roxas
In a focused discussion during the event, Founder Via Dominico detailed Startok’s strategic direction, operational priorities, and its expanding role in the creator economy.
Established less than a year ago in partnership with TikTok Shop Philippines and powered by M-Commerce, Startok was developed to provide structured training, performance support, and career opportunities for aspiring livestream creators. The program draws from Dominico’s successful experience as TikTok’s Top Beauty Live Creator in 2023, which inspired the agency’s creator-first approach. “The goal has always been to enable more creators to succeed, not just individually, but as a community,” Dominico noted.
Spotlight is on, as StarTok talents welcomes their batch 2 creators to their family
Spotlight is on, as StarTok talents welcomes their batch 2 creators to their family
Dominico emphasized the distinction between traditional content creation and livestream commerce, citing the growing demand from brands for measurable, conversion-driven outcomes. She stressed that livestreaming requires strong audience engagement, real-time communication, and an authentic presentation of products. “Brands today prioritize performance. Livestream creators must demonstrate credibility, consistency, and data-backed results,” she added.
A key operational challenge identified by Dominico is guiding creators to adopt the discipline required in live selling. Many talents entering the industry underestimate the rigor involved compared to short-form content production. Startok addresses this through training programs focused on livestream strategy, storytelling, product alignment, and responsible promotion practices. “Authenticity remains a core value of Startok. Our creators are encouraged to promote items they truly use and believe in,” she said.
Startok talents team
Startok talents team
As Startok approaches its first anniversary in February, the agency is preparing for further expansion. Upcoming initiatives include enhanced video production capabilities, offline activation support for creator events, and the introduction of new creator development services. Startok is also evaluating potential partnerships with youth and university communities as part of its long-term growth strategy.
Dominico reaffirmed Startok’s commitment to elevating the livestream sector. “We aim to strengthen the ecosystem by equipping creators with the right skills, values, and opportunities,” she said.
Startok continues to position itself as a key player in shaping the next generation of livestream professionals in the Philippines.
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