PHILSME Attracts 10,000 Entrepreneurs Seeking Genuine Business Connections Beyond Digital Platforms

Manila, Philippines — More than 10,000 entrepreneurs, startup founders, executives, exhibitors, and business professionals gathered at the recently concluded 18th Philippine SME (PHILSME) Business Expo & Conference at the SMX Convention Center Manila, highlighting the continued importance of face-to-face networking and collaboration in today’s increasingly digital business environment.

Carrying the theme “Legacy in Motion: Empowering Growth to the Nation,” the two-day event featured over 190 exhibitors and more than 260 business solutions aimed at supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across the country. The expo served as a platform for business matching, mentorship sessions, networking opportunities, and entrepreneurship-focused discussions.

Hosted by veteran broadcaster David Celdran, the opening ceremony featured PHILSME CEO and Managing Director Trixie Esguerra-Abrenilla, together with Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Undersecretary Blesila Lantayona and several business leaders and sponsors.

Throughout the event, attendees actively participated in conference sessions, consultations, networking spaces, and learning activities. Many entrepreneurs stayed beyond scheduled sessions to exchange ideas, build relationships, and connect directly with mentors and industry experts.

Esguerra-Abrenilla emphasized that PHILSME continues to create an ecosystem where Filipino entrepreneurs can grow together through collaboration, mentorship, and shared opportunities. Meanwhile, DTI Undersecretary Lantayona highlighted the crucial role of MSMEs in national development, stating that the true legacy of businesses is measured not only through profit but also through the positive impact they create for communities and the future of the country.

One of the major highlights of the expo was the launch of the first-ever PHILSME Business Magazine, introduced by PHILSME Media Director Angie Quadra-Balibay. The publication aims to showcase the stories, experiences, and defining moments behind Filipino entrepreneurs and enterprises.

The event also featured a Media Presser discussing financing accessibility, AI-powered business tools, digital payments, and marketing visibility for MSMEs. Industry representatives from GCash for Business, Adobe, Skyro, and Esquire Financing shared valuable insights about business growth and innovation.

Several notable speakers also took the stage, including motivational entrepreneur Bo Sanchez, Blogapalooza founder Ace Gapuz, and tax educator Ed Cervantes, among others.

As digital transformation continues to reshape industries, the success of the 18th PHILSME Business Expo demonstrated that entrepreneurs still value real-world spaces where mentorship, collaboration, and meaningful business conversations happen organically.