PHILSME Business Expo Opens Biggest Edition Yet, Showcasing Innovation and Growth for Filipino MSMEs

MANILA, Philippines — The 18th PHILSME Business Expo & Conference officially opened at the SMX Convention Center Manila, bringing together thousands of entrepreneurs, business leaders, government representatives, startup founders, and industry partners for what organizers describe as the largest PHILSME event in its history.

The two-day expo commenced with a ceremonial ribbon-cutting led by PHILSME CEO and Managing Director Trixie Esguerra-Abrenilla and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Undersecretary Blesila Lantayona, joined by sponsors, exhibitors, and key stakeholders from the country’s thriving small and medium enterprise sector. The opening ceremony was hosted by veteran broadcaster David Celdran, who welcomed attendees from across the Philippines and highlighted the importance of community-driven business development.

“Every edition of this Expo is a testament to what happens when a community truly and genuinely believes in one another — and when we all come together to believe in the power of Filipino business,” Celdran said during the program.

Esguerra-Abrenilla expressed gratitude to the SME community for its continued support and emphasized PHILSME’s commitment to creating better opportunities for entrepreneurs. “We try to keep on getting better and better for you and because of you,” she told attendees.

In her keynote address, DTI Undersecretary Lantayona underscored the vital role of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in nation-building. She noted that the impact of businesses extends beyond financial success, contributing to stronger communities and a brighter future for Filipinos.

A major highlight of the event was the launch of the first-ever PHILSME Business Magazine, introduced by PHILSME Media Director and Editor Angie Quadra-Balibay. The publication aims to document the journeys, challenges, and achievements of Filipino entrepreneurs through in-depth storytelling rather than traditional business advice. The launch featured a magazine exhibit and meet-and-greet opportunities with contributors and featured business leaders.

The expo also hosted a media presser focused on MSME growth and innovation, featuring executives from GCash for Business, Skyro, Adobe, and Esquire Financing, who discussed financing accessibility, digital transformation, marketing strategies, AI-powered solutions, and business expansion opportunities.

Adding an international perspective, PHILSME partnered with GMA Pinoy TV for a panel discussion featuring overseas Filipino entrepreneurs sharing insights on how global work experiences can inspire entrepreneurship and contribute to national development.

Carrying the theme “Legacy in Motion: Empowering Growth to the Nation,” the 18th PHILSME Business Expo & Conference spans two halls at SMX Convention Center Manila and is expected to attract more than 12,000 visitors, showcase 190 exhibitors, and present over 260 business solutions designed to help Filipino MSMEs grow, innovate, and succeed.