Ronn Astillas has more than 15 years of experience in international trade relations and public policy development. He obtained his master's degree in International Political Economy from the University of Manchester (UK) as a British Chevening scholar, and currently serves as a consultant for multi-sectoral organizations/entities and provides advice on public policy, stakeholder engagement, and external economic relations. As a former Philippine lead trade negotiator in ASEAN services sector, he supported the promotion of competitive and innovative industries to deepen the country's engagement in regional cooperation and integration. His involvement in international trade included economic negotiations through the ambit of various ASEAN free trade agreements. He served as the inaugural Philippine lead services negotiator for the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), a mega trade deal that accounts for about 30% of the global GDP covering almost 30% of the world population. Advocating for greater diversity, equality, and inclusion, Ronn provides guidance and vision as the current chair of the Philippine LGBT Chamber of Commerce, a non-stock, non-profit industry organization of businesses of, by, and for Philippine LGBT. He also considers himself as an ally of sustainable farming and urges communities to support locally made and grown products.