Future of Trust Forum Highlights Growing Government Support for Trusted Digital Innovation

Building trust in the digital age requires more than adopting new technologies. It requires collaboration among government, industry, and policymakers to ensure innovation is supported by strong governance and public confidence.

This was the central message at Future of Trust: A Leaders Forum on Technology and Governance, the opening event of Philippine Blockchain Week 2026, where government leaders, legislators, regulators, and private sector executives explored how blockchain, artificial intelligence, and digital governance can shape the country's digital future.

Among the strongest signals of support came from Senator Bam Aquino, who reaffirmed the importance of enabling legislation that allows emerging technologies to flourish responsibly.

“When we leverage technologies like blockchain and AI, we have a rare opportunity to leapfrog our nation's progress and development," Senator Aquino said.

He also thanked the Blockchain Council of the Philippines for its support of the proposed Citizen Access and Disclosure of Expenditures for National Accountability (CADENA) Act, which seeks to institutionalize blockchain-based budget transparency, expressing hope that government and industry can continue working together to advance the measure.

Panel discussions also demonstrated how government agencies were beginning to explore practical applications of emerging technologies.

For Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) General Manager Nicolas Torre, technology adoption must ultimately serve the public. “We're studying whether blockchain has applications within MMDA's operations," he said.

While noting that the agency already relies heavily on artificial intelligence to improve traffic monitoring and frontline services, Torre said emerging technologies continue to be evaluated based on how they can strengthen operational efficiency while protecting data privacy.

The forum gathered leaders from the Department of Information and Communications Technology, Department of Budget and Management, MMDA, and major private sector organizations to discuss the future of digital identity, AI governance, blockchain infrastructure, cybersecurity, and trusted digital services.

Offering a global perspective, Dr. Kamal Anand, Founder and CEO of Bigod Group, said: “The Philippines is far ahead on the blockchain adoption curve.”

“We work with many countries around the world, and I believe the level of adoption here is remarkable, especially in Southeast Asia,” he said. “The key now is trust. When trust is supported by clear regulations and strong collaboration between government and industry, innovation can move forward much faster. The market is already growing, blockchain adoption is booming, and I believe the Philippines is well positioned to lead in this space."

Discussions on trust also extended into traditional industries where blockchain and AI are beginning to unlock new opportunities. During a panel on the future of real estate, valuation, and emerging technologies, Josemari Cuervo, President & Managing Director of Cuervo Appraisers, highlighted the potential of real-world asset (RWA) tokenization to broaden access to investment opportunities while underscoring the importance of trusted information as the foundation of any digital asset ecosystem.

"Tokenization could open real estate investment to more Filipinos across different income levels. But before we can unlock that opportunity, we need trusted data and trusted valuations. That's the foundation that allows investors to participate with confidence," he said.

The discussion reflected a recurring theme throughout the forum: whether in government services, financial systems, artificial intelligence, or real estate markets, technology can only scale when trust exists in the data, institutions, and frameworks that support it.

As the opening event of Philippine Blockchain Week 2026, Future of Trust underscored a common realization among both public and private sector leaders: the next phase of digital transformation will not be defined by technology alone, but by the ability to build trusted systems that are transparent, secure, and accountable—laying the foundation for sustainable innovation and economic growth.

Philippine Blockchain Week 2026 is made possible through the strategic support of our sponsors and partners: Bigod Token, Binance by Blockshoals, Vaulnox, Smashpay, Predict Protocol, Creatachain, and many more.

Philippine Blockchain Week 2026 Marks the Shift from Decoding to Deployment

MANILA, Philippines — More than 12,000 local and international delegates gathered at the SMX Convention Center Manila for Philippine Blockchain Week (PBW) 2026, transforming the venue into a hub for technology, innovation, entrepreneurship, gaming, entertainment, and public policy.

Held over three days under the theme Decoded: Deployed, the fourth edition marked a turning point in the country's digital transformation. Rather than explaining what blockchain, artificial intelligence, and digital assets can do, PBW 2026 demonstrated how these technologies are already being deployed across government, finance, business, and everyday life.

The event featured over 150 speakers from around the world, with more than half representing international markets, sharing insights on blockchain, AI, cybersecurity, governance, and entrepreneurship.

PBW opened with Future of Trust: A Leaders Forum on Technology and Governance, bringing together senior government officials, regulators, business leaders, and technology pioneers to discuss how emerging technologies can strengthen transparency, governance, and public trust. The forum reinforced a central message: innovation succeeds not only through technology, but through the institutions and partnerships that enable its responsible deployment.

From Vision to Movement

For PBW Co-Founder Chezka Gonzales, the event reflected a vision that began five years ago.

"My personal goal has always been simple: to put Filipinos on the world stage and the Philippines on the global blockchain map—to showcase Filipino talent, innovation, and resilience to the world," she said.

"Philippine Blockchain Week is more than a conference. It's a platform where conversations become partnerships, partnerships become companies, and companies create opportunities for Filipinos," she added.

That vision came alive as startups met investors, enterprises connected with innovators, regulators exchanged ideas with industry leaders, and communities explored new opportunities in the digital economy.

A Global Platform

The event welcomed speakers and delegates from across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and North America to contribute insights on emerging technologies and digital transformation.

Among the most anticipated speakers was Michael Terpin, widely known as the "Godfather of Crypto."

"The Philippines has been a leader in innovation for many years. Social media has played a major role in incubating new platforms here, and Axie Infinity became a global phenomenon because of the Philippines," he said, further proving that the Philippines is no longer simply participating in the global technology conversation—it is increasingly helping shape it.

PBW 2026 also highlighted the convergence of technology, culture, and community. The launch of Viral PH spotlighted the creator economy, while the ALT+TAB Gaming and Music Festival brought together gaming, esports, music, creators, and live entertainment. Attendees also joined hackathons, startup showcases, esports tournaments, networking sessions, and the Founders Arena, where startups connected with investors and ecosystem partners.

From Conversation to Deployment

The conference theme came to life through discussions on tokenized real-world assets and practical blockchain applications. Varun Chugh, External Financial Advisor of BiGod Token, explained how tokenization is modernizing traditional assets.

"Gold has served as a store of value for centuries, yet it remains one of the most difficult assets to transact. At BiGod, we aim to make that asset simple, accessible, and cross-border. We have already demonstrated this by using our token to facilitate payments here at Philippine Blockchain Week," he said.
His remarks captured the essence of Decoded: Deployed: emerging technologies are no longer future concepts but practical solutions addressing real-world challenges today.

Building the Future Together

Philippine Blockchain Week 2026 was made possible through the support of its sponsors, exhibitors and ecosystem partners, including BiGod Token, Binance by Blockshoals, Vaulnox International, Smashpay Inc., Predict Protocol, Creatachain, Coins.PH, KMC Solutions, MEXC Ventures, O2 Ramp, Orca, Universe Pro, Meteon Run, NSpire, The Executive Centre, Comm&Sense PR, DvCode Technologies, Inc., Naheal, Lumina Events, Wendy's, McDonald's, and San Miguel Beer.

With more than 12,000 attendees, over 150 speakers, and countless collaborations formed, PBW 2026 demonstrated that the Philippines has evolved from an emerging participant into a growing force in the global digital economy.

Decoded: Deployed was more than a theme. It reflected where the industry stands today.

The future is no longer being imagined. It is already being built.

Philippine Blockchain Week 2026 Showcases the Future of Web3 Innovation in Southeast Asia

The Philippines once again cemented its position as one of Southeast Asia’s emerging blockchain hubs as Philippine Blockchain Week (PBW) 2026 successfully gathered industry leaders, innovators, policymakers, and technology enthusiasts from June 19 to 21 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.

The three-day event highlighted the rapid evolution of blockchain technology and Web3 applications, providing attendees with a comprehensive look at how decentralized technologies are reshaping industries across the region. From financial services and enterprise solutions to digital identity and public infrastructure, PBW 2026 demonstrated the growing impact of blockchain in real-world applications.

One of the major highlights of the event was the Official Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony, which formally inaugurated the PBW 2026 Innovation Expo. The ceremony was led by prominent government officials, Web3 pioneers, and industry captains who emphasized the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in accelerating digital transformation. The expo featured groundbreaking blockchain platforms, fintech solutions, tokenization projects, and next-generation digital infrastructure designed to support the future digital economy.

Another key attraction was the "Decoded: Deployed" Main Conference, where global thought leaders discussed how blockchain technology is moving beyond theoretical concepts into practical implementation. Panel discussions explored topics such as financial inclusion, decentralized finance (DeFi), digital asset adoption, and secure data ownership. Experts shared insights on how Web3 technologies are helping underserved communities gain access to financial services while enabling businesses to build more transparent and efficient systems.

The event also hosted the highly anticipated Global Creator & Influencer Summit, bringing together digital entrepreneurs, content creators, and social media personalities. Discussions centered on the future of the creator economy, exploring how blockchain-based platforms, digital ownership, and tokenized communities are empowering creators to build sustainable revenue streams. Attendees also enjoyed the vibrant Celebrity Bazaar, which added excitement and energy to the convention floor.

Complementing the conference and expo was the ALT+TAB Gaming & Music Festival, where technology, gaming, and entertainment converged. Visitors experienced immersive esports competitions, interactive Web3 gaming showcases, and live performances from popular artists including 1st One, Ameurfina III, PRIMO.ph, Donnalyn, and KAIA.

As blockchain adoption continues to accelerate across Southeast Asia, Philippine Blockchain Week 2026 served as a powerful platform for innovation, collaboration, and education. The event showcased how the Philippines is playing an increasingly important role in shaping the future of Web3 while fostering an ecosystem where technology, creativity, and entrepreneurship can thrive.

Philippine Blockchain Week 2026 Expands Into Creator Culture, Fandoms, and Live Entertainment

MANILA, Philippines – As influence increasingly transforms from a metric to a full-blown movement, this year’s edition of Philippine Blockchain Week is highlighting the growing impact of creator culture through a series of immersive entertainment and community-driven experiences that offer a preview of ViralPH, a global content creator and culture summit slated for the second quarter of 2027.

To be held from June 20 to 21 at the SMX Convention Center Manila, Philippine Blockchain Week 2026 will feature a dynamic lineup of creator-driven experiences, live entertainment, immersive community activations, and fan-focused engagements that bring together the worlds of internet culture, technology, entertainment, and digital communities in one massive celebration.

Entertainment and fan experiences

Attendees can look forward to meet-and-greets with international and local personalities, giving fans rare opportunities to interact with some of today’s most recognizable creators, influencers, entertainers, and online personalities through live appearances, photo opportunities, and interactive fan sessions.

One of the event’s biggest attractions will be the Celebrity Bazaar, a high-energy marketplace showcasing creator-led brands, exclusive merchandise, collectibles, fashion pieces, beauty products, and lifestyle items from celebrities, influencers, and digital entrepreneurs — transforming the convention floor into a creator-powered shopping and discovery experience.

Adding another layer of entertainment to the weekend are interactive dating and matchmaking segments hosted live on-ground by internationally certified matchmaker and relationship coach Vanessa Antonio. These segments combine audience participation, social interaction, humor, and reality-style entertainment, resulting in a one-of-a-kind immersive convention experience.

Capping off the festivities are live performances from rising P-pop acts, including KAIA and 1st One, bringing world-class music, choreography, and fan-driven entertainment to the Philippine Blockchain Week stage in a celebration of Filipino pop culture and digital fandoms.

According to Philippine Blockchain Week lead convenor and co-founder Janelle Barretto, this year’s programming reflects the growing convergence of technology, entertainment, and creator-led communities.

“We’re seeing creator culture evolve into a major force that shapes entertainment, commerce, communities, and digital engagement,” she said. “Philippine Blockchain Week is creating experiences that bring these worlds together in a more immersive and interactive way.”

Global speakers and influencers

The event also brings together a roster of globally celebrated speakers and personalities who embody the intersection of culture, creativity, and digital influence.

Global motivational speaker, content creator, and entrepreneur Nick Santonastasso will take the stage to share his story of mindset transformation and resilience. This message resonates deeply in the age of the creator economy.

Nick has a rare congenital condition called Hanhart syndrome, which has left him without legs, with only one arm, and only one finger on his hand. Despite these limitations, he has grown into an inspirational force, training more than a million people worldwide on life and business psychology.

Aside from Nick, the United Arab Emirates’ leading automotive influencer, Car Expert, will speak about the power of communities built around passion — from lifestyle and mobility, to the enthusiast cultures that have found their home in the digital world.

Representing the best of Filipino digital culture, content creators Donna and James Afante will showcase the brand of storytelling that has made the Philippines one of the most vibrant creator communities in the world.

Other major attractions happening throughout Philippine Blockchain Week 2026 are Future of Trust, a leadership forum on technology and governance; ALT+TAB Festival, a youth-driven gaming and pop culture event; and PBW Fight Night, where blockchain culture meets live sports entertainment.

With thousands of attendees expected from across the creator economy, entertainment, technology, lifestyle, and Web3 sectors, Philippine Blockchain Week 2026 continues to expand beyond a traditional conference into a broader platform for culture, community, and innovation.

Philippine Blockchain Week co-founder Chezka Gonzales believes that the Philippines sits at a rare crossroads, one where creativity, technology, and community naturally meet and thrive.

“Filipino creators continue to make their mark globally - building communities and shaping culture across industries. That’s what makes the Philippines the perfect home for a summit celebrating creativity, innovation, and collaboration,” she said.

Partners and supporters

Philippine Blockchain Week 2026 is made possible through the strategic support of our sponsors and partners: Vaulnox International, BiGod Token, Creatachain, Smashpay Inc., San Miguel Beer, Orca, Meteorun, O2 Ramp, Universe Pro, Comm&Sense PR, DvCode Technologies, Inc., KMC Solutions, NSpire, The Executive Centre, Naheal, Lumina Events, and many more.

We also acknowledge our local and international media partners: CignalTV, BrandPR, DOOH.ph, Negosentro Media, House of Yugen, SEO Hacker, Crypto OG, Etherscan, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Inquirer.net, Inquirer Business, Sigma AIBC, Net25, The Manila Times, Boost Gio, CryptoEvents, CryptoNewsZ, Kwen2Co, Times of Blockchain, DORIC, and Tekkie Pinas

For partnership, sponsorship, media, and participation inquiries, contact the Philippine Blockchain Week organizing team at info@pbw.ph, https://pbw.ph