MANILA, PHILIPPINES – The 17th Philippine SME Business Expo and Conference (PHILSME) Entrepreneur and Franchise Edition marked another milestone for the country’s thriving SME community as it welcomed 10,000 visitors to the World Trade Center Metro Manila for two days of learning, inspiration, and meaningful engagement among entrepreneurs and small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
PHILSME CEO and Managing Director Trixie Esguerra-Abrenilla led the event, underscoring its purpose-driven atmosphere “Entrepreneurs came looking for ideas that fit them. SMEs came looking for solutions they could act on. The intention and energy across the 17th edition were truly inspiring.”
During the Opening Day program, DTI Assistant Secretary Grace Baluyan highlighted the indispensable role of MSMEs in the nation’s progress, noting that “through these jobs and livelihoods, MSMEs support families, communities, and local economies.”
Visitors attended empowering sessions from respected business mentors and industry leaders including Francis Kong, Dean Pax Lapid, Jonathan Yabut, Myrna ‘Mommy Negosyo’ Natividad, Reymond ‘Boss RDR’ Delos Reyes, Kimberly ‘Kimilu’ Lu, and Kween Yasmin. Corporate speakers added depth to the program, with Toyota Motor Philippines’ Norman Cloyd B. Sebastian emphasizing mobility and innovation in entrepreneurial success, and Joseph Jerome Francia of GMA International leading a GMA Pinoy TV panel on empowering Filipinos working abroad to transition from OFWs to entrepreneurs.
Beyond the conference, PHILSME reinforced community building through the PHILSME Business Network New Members Awarding Ceremony and an exclusive Networking Night for members, exhibitors, and sponsors. Exhibitors praised the edition for attracting high-quality visitors who explored business options with intentionality and clarity, discussing solutions aligned with their goals.
Supported by 19 sponsors, headlined by Toyota Motor Philippines as Diamond Sponsor and Platinum Sponsors GCash for Business, Taho Story, USA Poultry & Egg Export Council, Benchmark, and Canva, the event concluded with overwhelmingly positive feedback.
The strong reception has already encouraged exhibitors to secure their participation in the 18th PHILSME, set for May 22–23, 2026 at the SMX Convention Center, Pasay City. Entrepreneurs interested in exhibiting may apply via philsme.com/exhibit, while details on sponsorships and partnerships are available at philsme.com.
