About us...
In an ever-evolving digital world, HALO HALO stands as a beacon of collaboration and progress. By merging top-tier content with cutting-edge technology, we craft unforgettable experiences. As we navigate this exciting journey, we warmly invite you—our valued creators, readers, and collaborators—to co-create, share, and shape the future of entertainment with us.
HALO HALO seamlessly merges state-of-the-art technology with compelling narratives, delivering enriching experiences that redefine the essence of mobile entertainment. More than just a platform, we represent a collective dream, an inclusive community, and a dedication to pioneering experiences. If you're a viewer yearning for original narratives, an artist ready to create, or a storyteller with fresh tales to share, you've found your space with HALO HALO.
CO-FOUNDERS
SHARLEEN DEE SY
Chief Executive Officer & CTO
HALO HALO ZODIAC: TIBUWAN
Meet Sharleen, our mastermind CEO and CTO, with a remarkable talent for crafting technology and building teams that seamlessly mix art, creativity and innovation. She fosters an environment that maximizes inventiveness and encourages collaboration. Sharleen has worked with industry luminaries like the late Stan Lee, alongside major players such as WB, Cartoon Network, Universal Studios, Wattpad, Alias|wavefront, MGI Software, and Delrina. With a unique blend of engineering, gamification design and artistic expertise, Sharleen is recognized for pioneering cutting-edge technology products, including Maya (3D), CYBERWORLD, Stan Lee 3D, Boneville 3D, Pokémon 2000 (3D Game), PhotoSuite, WinFAX, and more. As a respected industry influencer, she ignites positive transformative change on a global scale, championing responsible and ethical AI for creative empowerment. With her shared fan perspective, Sharleen's 'Fans first' commitment is apparent as she actively nurtures communities where fans become integral participants in the creative process.
WHILCE PORTACIO
Chief Creative Officer
HALO HALO ZODIAC: TANGLAWA
Meet Whilce, our visionary Chief Creative Officer and a world-renowned comics artist celebrated for his groundbreaking work and unwavering support of Filipino artists and creatives worldwide. Whilce's remarkable journey, underscored by iconic collaborations with artists like Jim Lee and reaching a significant milestone with his co-creation of the legendary character Bishop during his tenure at Marvel, is a testament to his profound impact on the industry. As a co-founder of Image Comics, Whilce's significant contributions, including pioneering work on 'Wetworks,' have shaped the comics landscape. His unwavering commitment to the craft, demonstrated through notable projects like Spawn and collaborative endeavors with Marc Silvestri's Top Cow, continues to captivate audiences worldwide. At HALO HALO, Whilce is at the helm of our creative team, forging an extraordinary new universe inspired by Filipino Mythology, alongside a team of some of the best creatives from Marvel, DC, Image, Webtoons, animation, and more, a testament to his unending commitment to storytelling and artistic innovation.
HANK KANALZ
Chief Operating Officer & Publisher
HALO HALO ZODIAC: ARAWI
Meet Hank, HALO HALO's accomplished Publisher and COO, with an impressive 35+ years of leadership in the comic book industry. After helping to found Image Comics, Hank's professional journey has taken him from a Line Editor at Marvel Comics to Senior Vice President of Content Strategy at DC to Publisher for Clover Press. Throughout his distinguished career, he consistently drives pioneering creative endeavors, including launching DC’s foray into digital comics. Hank's key positions at DC included General Manager of the WildStorm studio, SVP of Digital, SVP of Vertigo and Integrated Publishing, and SVP of Publishing Strategy. Hank's editorial highlights include overseeing a line of comics for Marvel Comics, launching DC’s manga line, overseeing the launch of DC’s Middle Grade and Young Adult graphic novel line, and editing many comics ranging from Batman: Legends of the Dark Knight to World of Warcraft. Hank's wealth of experience reinforces the HALO HALO team, strengthening our mission to share captivating stories with global anime, manga, manhwa, and comic book enthusiasts.
CECILIA LIM
Chief Business Officer & President
HALO HALO ZODIAC: TANGLAWA
Meet Cecilia, our trailblazing President and Chief Business Officer, bolstering HALO HALO’s executive team with over two decades of corporate and technology legal expertise. With a background rooted in law and business, she's amassed over 30 technology patent submissions and committed over 20 years to Florida Power & Light, a Fortune 200 company, where she played a pivotal role in strategy and innovation. Cecilia's diverse skillset extends to her role as Co-founder and CEO of Kwento Comics, an all-female, all-Asian comic book company, where she infuses Filipino and Asian mythologies into contemporary fantasy stories. Her prior roles encompassed responsibilities in the Information Management Department of FPL, where she directed strategic initiatives, managed high-volume transaction reviews, facilitated dispute resolutions, and provided critical insights for the FPL Procurement Department. Cecilia's involvement at HALO HALO brings a wealth of experience and diverse perspectives to our team, strengthening our mission to be an innovative and creatively energetic hub, synchronizing with the complementary skills of our founding team.
FOUNDING TEAM
JOHN MARCHILDON-FLETCHER
Director R&D
HALO HALO ZODIAC: TANGLAWA
Meet John, a seasoned engineer with over 30 years of expertise in Software Architecture, Engineering, and managing technology teams. With a degree in Systems Design Engineering from the University of Waterloo, John has been a driving force in technology innovation. His extensive experience includes key roles at TD Bank, and consumer software development with Play Dynamics, showcasing his versatile skills and commitment to technological advancement.
ADVISORS
APL.DE.AP
Creative
Apl is a Filipino-American rapper, singer, and record producer. Born in Angeles City, Philippines, in 1974, he rose to global fame as a member of the Grammy Award-winning hip hop group, The Black Eyed Peas. His journey from a childhood marked by poverty to international stardom exemplifies resilience and talent. Apl.de.Ap's contributions to music extend beyond performance; he's actively involved in philanthropy, notably through his Apl.de.Ap Foundation, which focuses on education and healthcare in the Philippines. His story underscores the power of music to transcend boundaries and uplift communities worldwide.
RYAN BENJAMIN
Creative
Ryan is a seasoned artist who has left an indelible mark on the comic book industry. With notable works spanning Marvel, DC Comics, DarkHorse, Acclaim, and Valiant Comics, his portfolio boasts iconic titles like Batman, X-Men, and Star Wars. He's also extended his talent to video games and television, showcasing his versatility and creativity.
RONNIE DEL CARMEN
Creative
Ronnie is an accomplished co-director and co-writer known for his pivotal role in Pixar's Inside Out, which earned him critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination. With over 21 years at Pixar Animation Studios, Del Carmen has contributed his exceptional storytelling skills to numerous beloved films, including Up, Ratatouille, Coco, Brave, Finding Nemo, Incredibles 2, and Toy Story 4. His background in storyboarding has shaped the visual narratives of these iconic animations, blending emotional depth with engaging storytelling. Del Carmen's diverse experiences, including his work as a storyboard artist and director, have established him as a significant figure in the animation industry. His dedication to crafting compelling stories has left a lasting impact on audiences, making him a celebrated voice in contemporary animated cinema.
RICKY NIERVA
Creative
Ricky was a production designer at Pixar Animation Studios. Over the past 25 years, he has contributed to some of the studio's most beloved films; his credits include Monsters, Inc., Toy Story 2, Finding Nemo, Up, and the critically acclaimed Inside Out. Nierva's artistic vision and attention to detail have played a significant role in shaping the emotional and narrative depth of these animated features. In recognition of his outstanding achievements, he received an Annie Award, underscoring his influence and excellence in the field of animation design.
JOYCELYN DAVID
Joycelyn, AVC's Owner & CEO, revels in collaborating with a creative team and impactful brands. Born to Filipino immigrants, she champions multicultural community engagement. With nearly 20 years in marketing at Western Union and KPMG, Joycelyn excels in holistic business growth strategies, blending financial acumen with boundless optimism. A Star Wars aficionado, adventurous spirit, and musician, she embraces life's simplicity and treasures her time spent with family (and her collection of throw pillows). Passionate about facilitating client success, Joycelyn embodies an optimistic, can-do attitude in every strategic endeavor.
GORDON HO
Gordon, formerly EVP at Disney Studios as well as CMO and Head of Sales at Princess Cruises, spearheaded innovative partnerships and experiences such as Discovery at Sea and The Voice of the Ocean. Under his leadership, Princess Cruises launched culinary collaborations with acclaimed chefs like Curtis Stone and Ernesto Uchimura. Gordon's tenure at Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment saw the creation of a $3B direct-to-video category and pioneering digital marketing strategies. He currently advises startups like Simulmedia and ITV and has chaired the Research Committee at Promax|BDA. With a background at Hewlett Packard and Leo Burnett, Gordon holds an MBA from Northwestern University and a B.S. in Industrial Engineering from Stanford.
ARTHUR VINCENT D CHUNG
Banker for over 30 years, formerly with Bank of America as an investment banker. Expertise in both corporate banking, trade and corespondent banking with several top Filipino banks. Former deputy country head of Societe Generale in Manila. He is now the country head of United Overseas Bank Manila.
PHILIP TAN
Creative
Philip is a renowned illustrator and comic book artist, who began his career at WildStorm productions and quickly gained recognition at Image Comics and Marvel Comics, contributing to titles like Thor and Uncanny X-Men. He later joined DC Comics (and we stole his profile pic from them), leaving his mark on iconic series like Green Lantern and Batman.
KEN LASHLEY
Creative
Ken Lashley is a prolific artist and editor, credited as a colorist, penciller, cover colorist, inker, finisher, cover, and variant cover artist, has worked across the comic book industrty with DC (Suicide Squad, Superwoman, Batwing, Superboy) and Marvel (Excalibur, X-Men, Rising Stars, Black Panther). Recently, Lashley has contributed to X-Men: Gold and is currently drawing Bloodshot: Rising Spirit for Valiant Comics and debuted a number of new covers for Marvel Comics in spring 2019. Has worked with Hasbro and other companies like Lucasfilm on package design and marketing Star Wars and other projects. When not contributing to comics, Lashley is a self-proclaimed family man and is dedicated to spending time with his daughters.
BOBBY RUBIO
Creative
Bobby brings over 30 years of experience in animation. He was Head of Story for Paramount Animation on Transformers One and spent 14 years at Pixar as a Story Artist, contributing to Inside Out, Lightyear, and Incredibles 2. As the Writer/Director of the Pixar SparkShort Float, he made history with the first Disney/Pixar film featuring Filipino American lead characters. His extensive resume includes work at Nickelodeon on Avatar: The Last Airbender and contributions to Disney classics like Mulan and Tarzan. Rubio is also the creator of several independent comics.
MIGUEL DEL ROSARIO
Miguel is President & CEO of Toon City, one of the world's top animation studios, with offices in both Manila and Vancouver. His leadership has propelled the company to new heights, securing prestigious contracts with Walt Disney Television Animation, Universal Animation, Warner Brothers, Nelvana, Xilam Animation, and other major studios. Additionally, Miguel serves as Board Trustee for IBPAP, and holds the esteemed position of President of the Animation Council of the Philippines, championing the nation's animation industry on a global scale. Miguel's dedication and strategic vision make him a transformative figure in both the local and international animation landscape.
GARY TOSTE
Gary is CEO of Quadshift's SDS SaaS businesses, and boasts over 30 years of technical and business prowess; veteran of four SDS groups, two of which he founded, he has a proven track record of scaling startups and navigating mergers. At Brisk Mobile, he served as COO, facilitating its acquisition by AcuteNet and eventual salte to AlayaCare. Prior roles include COO at BiblioCommons and leadership positions at Brightspark Ventures. Notable for building product infrastructure and market-driven solutions, Gary holds a Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering from the University of Toronto and is a sought-after speaker on product management.
NATHAN R. ELSON
Nathan, founder and CEO of A Better Theory, leads a boutique firm dedicated to unraveling complex organizational dilemmas. Boasting 30+ years in marketing and business development, his expertise spans tech, publishing, and entertainment. With a profound knack for executive management, Nathan brings over two decades of leadership, notably in banking, accounting, and finance. A visionary strategist, he seeks to solve problems using a methodical approach, leveraging his multifaceted experience to best advantage.
TEAM
BRANDON TOSTE
R&D
HALO HALO ZODIAC: KUBALA
Meet Bradon, an Engineering Science student at the University of Toronto; he is passionate about leveraging cutting-edge technology to provide awesome user experiences.
BORONG "ALEX" XU
R&D
HALO HALO ZODIAC: DALISAYA
Alex is a curious and passionate individual who leverages technology to empower storytelling and art. In his free time, he enjoys gaming and basketball, as well as spending time with his dog
MIKE SEYMOUR
Director R&D Services & Government Relations
HALO HALO ZODIAC: BITWANA
Mike is a seasoned R&D professional with over 35 years in graphics software development. He was R&D Product Director for Alias|Wavefront's Industrial Design division working on significatn features for Maya, the leading 3D modeling and animation platform. Mike's impact extends to game application tools, collaborating with major companies including Nintendo, Sega, and Sony. At CYBERWORLD, he was Director of R&D for an innovative 3D internet web entertainment platform with partners including Stan Lee, Warner Bros, Universal, and more.
SARAH SIFTON
Content & Marketing
HALO HALO ZODIAC: KUBALA
Sarah is a certified history nerd and bookworm. She graduated from University of Colorado Denver.
CHRIS HEWTON
QA, Content & Marketing
HALO HALO ZODIAC: BITWANA
Meet Chris, former classically trained chef turned content creator and product tester.
KATIE MANUEL
Marketing
HALO HALO ZODIAC: LIWONGA
Katie is a marketing intern at HALO HALO who is passionate about storytelling and meeting new people!
PATRICK STOUGH
Content
HALO HALO ZODIAC: TIBUWAN
A gaming and tech enthusiast, and proud cat lover, Patrick is always exploring new virtual worlds with his feline friends by his side.
EVAN HOWIE
R&D
HALO HALO ZODIAC: DALISAYA
Evan is a Computer Engineering student at the University of Waterloo. Currently working as an enthusiastic software engineer for HALO HALO, his passion for innovation and technology drives our cutting-edge projects forward.
TUAN NGUYEN
R&D
HALO HALO ZODIAC: PANADARNA
Tuan is a University of Toronto graduate who is dedicated to leveraging AI to empower artists in crafting exceptional comics. He is passionate about pushing the boundaries of creativity and technology to shape the future of visual storytelling.
DIANNE HOWIE
UX
HALO HALO ZODIAC: KINOKAWA
Dianne's professional focus is making software intuitive and understanding users' needs. Her personal focus is on her family, and she's happiest when reading, exploring, or working on creative projects.
SAMANTHA HOWIE
Content Editor & Artist
HALO HALO ZODIAC: KINOKAWA
Samantha lives on a steady diet of milk tea and books - illustrated or otherwise.
MARKUS FAYE PORTACIO
Archivist
HALO HALO ZODIAC: LIWONGA
Markus is an aspiring archivist and artist. He has an immense love for everything about Filipino mythology and fashion!
RENÉE TIPLER-CORPUZ
Marketing
HALO HALO ZODIAC: ALIMAYA
Like our Aliymaya, Renée is a free spirit who loves to let her mind wander.
JAZZ OLSON
Business Development & Community
HALO HALO ZODIAC: ARAWI
Jazzy is a veteran community manager, with experience leading gaming communities of 10,000 people and raising $20,000 for charity causes through content creation, events, and networks. She likes making candles and wax melts.