Exhibitors Praise High-Quality Visitors at the 17th Philippine SME Business Expo and Conference (PHILSME) Entrepreneur and Franchise Edition
The 17th Philippine SME Business Expo and Conference (PHILSME) Entrepreneur and Franchise Edition, held November 28–29 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila, welcomed 10,000 visitors who explored innovative solutions from 180 brands designed to help small and medium enterprises (SMEs) grow and scale.
PHILSME CEO and Managing Director Trixie Esguerra-Abrenilla, who led the event, said:
“What stood out this edition was giving more space for franchising opportunities, which people were genuinely happy about. SMEs came looking for the right solutions, entrepreneurs came looking for the right fit, and businesses connected with intention. That focus is exactly what PHILSME exists to support.”
DTI Assistant Secretary Grace Baluyan delivered the Opening Day keynote, underscoring the economic importance of the sector: “Our MSMEs are not just part of the economy — they are the economy’s backbone.”
A diverse lineup of business mentors and industry experts presented across the expo’s stages, including Francis Kong, Dean Pax Lapid, Jonathan Yabut, Myrna ‘Mommy Negosyo’ Natividad, Reymond ‘Boss RDR’ Delos Reyes, Kimberly ‘Kimilu’ Lu, and Kween Yasmin. Corporate leaders also contributed valuable insights, among them Norman Cloyd Sebastian, Vice President, Sales Distribution Department – Marketing Division, Toyota Motor Philippines, who shared perspectives on mobility and business expansion, and Joseph Jerome Francia, First Vice President and Head of Operations, GMA International, who led the GMA Pinoy TV panel showcasing stories of Overseas Filipino Workers progressing into Overseas Filipino Entrepreneurs.
The expo also featured two community-focused gatherings: the PHILSME Business Network New Members Awarding Ceremony and an exclusive Networking Night attended by PHILSME Network members, exhibitors, and sponsors.
Exhibitors emphasized that the strength of this 17th edition lay in the high intent and preparedness of visitors. Many SME owners arrived with specific needs, engaged in in-depth discussions with exhibitors, and evaluated multiple solutions—resulting in stronger follow-ups and more meaningful interactions than in previous editions.
Supported by 19 sponsors, including Toyota Motor Philippines as Diamond Sponsor and Platinum Sponsors GCash for Business, Taho Story, USA Poultry & Egg Export Council, Benchmark, and Canva, the expo delivered a strong close to 2025.
The strong turnout and positive exhibitor feedback have already prompted companies to secure their booths for the 18th PHILSME, set for May 22–23, 2026 at the SMX Convention Center, Pasay City.
Exhibitors aiming to be part of the next edition and achieve their sales goals may apply at philsme.com/exhibit. For partnerships, sponsorships, and additional information, visit philsme.com.
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