PHILSME Expo Draws 10,000 Entrepreneurs Seeking Growth and Connections

Entrepreneurs, business owners, and exhibitors fill the exhibition floor during the 18th PHILSME Business Expo & Conference at SMX Convention Center Manila.

More than 10,000 entrepreneurs, startup founders, executives, and business professionals gathered at the recently concluded 18th Philippine SME (PHILSME) Business Expo & Conference, highlighting the continued demand for in-person business networking, learning opportunities, and entrepreneurial collaboration despite the rise of digital platforms and artificial intelligence.

Held at the SMX Convention Center Manila under the theme “Legacy in Motion: Empowering Growth to the Nation,” the two-day event featured more than 190 exhibitors and over 260 business solutions, alongside conference sessions, business matching activities, mentorship programs, and community meetups designed to support Filipino entrepreneurs.

The event opened with veteran broadcaster David Celdran and was attended by business leaders, industry partners, sponsors, and government representatives including Department of Trade and Industry Undersecretary Blesila Lantayona.

DTI highlights SMEs’ contribution to nation-building

PHILSME CEO and Managing Director Trixie Esguerra-Abrenilla leads the opening of the 18th Philippine SME (PHILSME) Business Expo & Conference at SMX Convention Center Manila, welcoming entrepreneurs, startups, exhibitors, and business leaders from across the country for two days of learning, networking, and collaboration.

During her keynote address, Lantayona emphasized the broader role of small businesses in economic and community development.

“The true legacy of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises is not only measured by profit. It is measured by the lives that we improve, the communities that we strengthen, and the future that we help build for every Filipino,” Lantayona said.

PHILSME CEO and Managing Director Trixie Esguerra-Abrenilla said the expo continues to provide opportunities for entrepreneurs to build meaningful business relationships and discover growth opportunities.

“We are happy to see exhibitors, sponsors, and visitors leaving the expo not only with leads and potential clients, but also with meaningful business connections and collaborations,” Esguerra-Abrenilla said.

PHILSME launches its first business magazine

Entrepreneurs, partners, featured personalities, and community leaders gather at the PHILSME Business Magazine exhibit during the 18th Philippine SME (PHILSME) Business Expo & Conference at SMX Convention Center Manila, following the launch of the platform’s first-ever business magazine highlighting Filipino entrepreneurship, leadership, and innovation.

One of the major highlights of the event was the launch of the inaugural PHILSME Business Magazine, expanding the organization’s efforts to spotlight entrepreneur stories beyond the expo floor.

PHILSME Media Director and magazine editor Angie Quadra-Balibay introduced the publication during the event.

“Today, PHILSME expands beyond the expo floor,” Quadra-Balibay said. “For the first time, we are launching the PHILSME Business Magazine — a portrait-led publication built around the lives, decisions, and defining moments behind Filipino enterprise.”

The launch included a magazine exhibit and photo opportunities with featured entrepreneurs, contributors, and writers.

Industry leaders discuss innovation and business growth

Industry partners and business leaders participate in the official PHILSME Media Presser, where discussions focused on MSME financing, digital payments, AI-powered tools, entrepreneurship, and business growth opportunities for Filipino enterprises.

PHILSME also hosted a media briefing featuring discussions on business financing, digital payments, marketing visibility, artificial intelligence, and business growth solutions.

Panelists included Mike Tabaday of Skyro, Paul Albano of GCash for Business, Curtis Ko of Adobe, and Ronnel Jovita of Esquire Financing, representing sectors that support entrepreneurs and growing enterprises.

Throughout the event, attendees participated in mentoring sessions, networking activities, and community discussions at the PHILSME Meet Up Space.

Featured sessions included mentoring activities with the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry Quezon City, AI-focused learning sessions led by Dean Pax Lapid, leadership and public speaking discussions by Toastmasters International, and community gatherings hosted by various entrepreneur groups.

Business experts share insights for entrepreneurs

Conference attendees also heard from a diverse lineup of entrepreneurs and industry experts, including Bo Sanchez, Ace Gapuz, Reymond “Boss RDR” delos Reyes, Ed Cervantes, Boni De Jesus, John Pagulayan, Jojo Apolo, Atty. Kristina “Tina” De Guzman, and Department of Science and Technology Regional Director Dr. Bernardo “Aido” Sepeda.

A special GMA Pinoy TV panel discussion titled “The Overseas Filipino Advantage: What Working Overseas Teaches About Entrepreneurship” brought together overseas Filipino entrepreneurs who shared how global experience influences business leadership, innovation, and growth.

Panelists included Dubai-based entrepreneurs Nico de Guzman and Karl de Guzman, maritime entrepreneur Captain Marlon Cataquis, and Esguerra-Abrenilla.

Looking ahead

Organizers reported strong networking activity, partnership discussions, customer leads, and business inquiries throughout the two-day event, underscoring the continuing value of face-to-face engagement for entrepreneurs.

The next PHILSME Business Expo & Conference is scheduled for May 2027 as the organization continues expanding opportunities for Filipino entrepreneurs, innovators, and business communities.

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