The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) officially launched the 51st Philippine Business Conference and Expo (PBC&E) today, August 18, setting the stage for the most anticipated business conference and the biggest technology show in the country. With the theme The Future is Now: Unleash the Power of Digital Transformation, the event will take place on October 20-21 at the SMX Convention Center Manila. Seated L-R: DICT assistant secretary Miguel Luis B. Planas, 51st PBC&E chairman and Converge CEO/Co-founder Dennis Anthony H. Uy, secretary Ma. Cristina A. Roque, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI); PCCI president Enunina V. Mangio, and 51st PBC&E Technology Expo chairman Ferdinand “Perry” Ferrer. Standing L-R: PCCI PR and SDGs Committees chairman Joel Tugade, PCCI director for Labor and co-chair, 51st PBC&E Arturo Guerrero, PCCI vice president for Industry Michael Tan, PCCI chairman George T. Barcelon and PCCI Secretary General Ruben J. Pascual.
The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) has officially launched the 51st Philippine Business Conference & Expo (PBC&E), a two-day event on October 20–21, 2025 at the SMX Convention Center Manila that aims to redefine how businesses, government, and global innovators work together to fast-track the country’s digital economy.
With the theme “The Future is Now: Unleash the Power of Digital Transformation,” this year’s PBC&E goes beyond discussion panels and policy pronouncements. It will feature a large-scale technology expo, international partnerships, a nationwide hackathon, and direct government commitments — underscoring the Philippines’ intent to move digital transformation from buzzword to backbone of growth.
Government and Industry in Lockstep
Key agencies will present flagship programs aligned with the national digitalization roadmap. The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) will highlight disaster preparedness and recovery innovations, while the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) will showcase next-gen connectivity projects. The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) will unveil new tools to help micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) adopt digital solutions.
“This year is about action, not just talk,” said Dennis Anthony H. Uy, Chairman of the 51st PBC&E. “We’re creating a platform where technology meets opportunity, where ideas evolve into projects, and where digital tools become accessible to every sector of society.”
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ma. Cristina A. Roque expressed DTI’s support in pushing digital transformation initiatives to further empower MSMEs.
Philippines’ first public tech expo
For the first time, the PBC&E will open its technology showcase to the public. Visitors on October 20–21 will get a hands-on experience with cutting-edge tools ranging from AI-powered solutions, Internet of Things (IoT) applications, robotics, smart city infrastructure, to advanced cybersecurity systems.
Leading the showcase are global innovators such as Huawei, Google, and Tencent Cloud International, alongside powerhouse technology and infrastructure players including Lenovo, Fortinet, Autodesk, Dell Technologies, Microsoft, Oracle, IBM, Canon, and Zoom. Local champions like Converge and Comclark will power digital connectivity, while industry giants such as San Miguel Corporation and NGCP emphasize national-scale infrastructure readiness.
“This is the first time a tech expo of this scale will be staged in the Philippines,” said PCCI President Enunina V. Mangio. “It is not just an exhibit, but an invitation for Filipinos to actively take part in shaping the country’s digital future.”
Hackathon as Launchpad for Future Tech Leaders
A centerpiece of the event is the National Hackathon Championship, where regional winners from across the country will compete in Manila. Teams will present AI-driven platforms, digital inclusion tools, and disruptive tech solutions before investors, industry leaders, and policymakers.
The champions stand to gain not just national recognition and financial rewards, but mentorship from leading innovators and the possibility of real-world adoption by both government and private sector partners. “It’s more than a competition — it’s a launchpad for the Philippines’ next generation of tech trailblazers,” Uy noted.
Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Secretary Henry Rhoel Aguda and Converge CEO/Co-founder Dennis Anthony H. Uy. Sec Aguda extended agency support to the 51st PBCE&E. The two leaders also signed a Memorandum of Understanding on strengthening measures against online scams.
Shaping policy for a digital nation
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is expected to join business leaders, foreign dignitaries, and technology experts in tackling the most pressing digital transformation issues. The agenda includes:
- Expanding nationwide broadband and last-mile connectivity
- Providing financing support for MSMEs adopting digital tools
- Examining the labor and productivity impacts of AI
- Strengthening digital literacy and workforce upskilling
- Fortifying data privacy and cybersecurity laws
- Building innovation hubs and incubators through public-private partnerships
Global Collaboration for Local Growth
The event has also drawn strong support from international partners, including the embassies of Korea, Israel, Spain, and the United States — underscoring how global cooperation in innovation and investment is becoming central to the Philippines’ digital push.
A Business Event Reimagined
Unlike previous editions, the 51st PBC&E will combine policy forums, live tech demos, networking opportunities, and startup showcases in one immersive experience. Attendees can listen to national leaders, explore new technologies, strike business deals, and witness emerging startups — all in the span of two days.
Pre-registration is required to attend the Tech Expo. Slots are limited and available via the official PCCI website and Facebook page.