The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) officially launched the 51st Philippine Business Conference & Expo (PBC&E), unveiling an ambitious agenda that puts digital transformation at the heart of the country’s premier business gathering. Scheduled for October 20–21, 2025, at the SMX Convention Center Manila, the conference is expected to bring together more than 2,000 leaders from government, business, technology, and the international community.
With the theme “The Future is Now: Unleash the Power of Digital Transformation,” this year’s PBC&E is positioned as more than just a forum for dialogue — it is envisioned as an action-driven platform where policies, technologies, and collaborations converge to accelerate the Philippines’ digital economy.
“This year is about action — not just talk. We are creating a space where ideas become projects, where technology meets opportunity, and where the benefits of digital tools are made accessible to all sectors of society,” said Dennis Anthony H. Uy, Chairman of the 51st PBC&E during the launch press conference at PCCI’s headquarters in Taguig City.
A National Platform for Digital Transformation
The PBC&E has long been recognized as the largest and most influential business event in the Philippines. Now in its 51st year, the conference adapts to a new era where technology is reshaping economies and societies in real time.
According to PCCI, this year’s program will not only highlight success stories in digitalization but also tackle pressing governance, ethical, and regulatory challenges that come with rapid technological change.
Government agencies are expected to play a central role in presenting programs aligned with the national digital roadmap:
- Department of Science and Technology (DOST): Showcasing technology-powered disaster preparedness and recovery initiatives.
- Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT): Demonstrating the impact of digital infrastructure and connectivity.
- Department of Trade and Industry (DTI): Providing digital readiness tools for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
These initiatives reflect PCCI’s drive to ensure that the benefits of digital transformation extend beyond urban centers and large corporations to include MSMEs, rural communities, and underserved populations.
Policy Advocacy and Government Partnerships
The 51st PBC&E is set to be headlined by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., alongside senior cabinet officials and global experts. Policy sessions will focus on key national priorities in the digital economy, including expanding nationwide broadband, supporting MSMEs in digital adoption, implementing digital literacy programs, and strengthening data privacy and cybersecurity frameworks.
“The digital age is no longer a distant horizon. It is the ground we stand on. We must get into this aggressively and urgently, especially as our country is made up of 7,600 islands,” said Sec. Ma. Cristina A. Roque of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) during the launch.
“Digital transformation is a top priority of President Marcos’ administration. We are steadfast in our commitment to creating a more resilient, competitive, and inclusive business environment for everyone. Together with the private sector, we can build a Philippines where every entrepreneur, no matter their size or location, can harness technology to achieve their dreams.”
Roque highlighted DTI’s three main mandates: foreign trade and international investment, consumer protection and fair trade, and MSME development, which accounts for 99.5% of Philippine business establishments. She emphasized that government efforts alone are insufficient, and that success depends on partnerships with private-sector stakeholders, whose insights and collaboration are key to unlocking the full potential of digital transformation.
A Tech-Enabled Conference Experience
Beyond policy and dialogue, PCCI is also transforming the conference experience itself into a live showcase of digitalization.
Attendees can expect a seamless and futuristic experience, from facial recognition check-in systems and real-time robotic assistance to a dedicated event app that provides instant access to programs, speaker sessions, and networking opportunities.
Massive LED displays will ensure that every presentation and product launch is delivered in vivid clarity, creating an immersive environment that reflects the conference theme: The Future is Now.
Global Cooperation in Focus
The launch also highlighted growing international participation in the PBC&E. Embassies of Korea, Israel, Spain, and the United States have confirmed support for this year’s edition, signaling stronger international cooperation in advancing trade, investment, and innovation.
Such participation not only boosts the conference’s global profile but also provides Philippine businesses with unique opportunities to connect with foreign partners, investors, and innovators.
What to Expect in October
Over the course of two days, participants will be able to:
- Join high-level plenary sessions with government and industry leaders.
- Attend business policy forums addressing digital, trade, and investment issues.
- Explore breakout sessions tailored for startups, executives, policymakers, and innovators.
- Celebrate entrepreneurship and leadership through the PCCI business awards.
- Network with thousands of local and global stakeholders.
The PBC&E will also integrate business matching, investment opportunities, and innovation showcases — allowing participants to move seamlessly from listening to policy discussions to exploring technologies and forging partnerships.
“This is not just an exhibit or a policy forum — it’s an invitation to participate in the country’s digital transformation journey,” said Enunina V. Mangio, President of PCCI, during the launch.
Why This Year Matters
The 51st PBC&E is shaping up to be a milestone event for the Philippine business sector. By combining policy advocacy, technological innovation, and immersive event design, PCCI aims to deliver an experience that not only reflects but also accelerates the nation’s digital transformation journey.
For businesses navigating today’s fast-changing landscape, the message from PCCI is clear: the future is no longer something to prepare for — it is already here.
The 51st Philippine Business Conference & Expo takes place on October 20–21, 2025, at the SMX Convention Center Manila. For registration and more details, visit the PCCI website or follow their official Facebook page.
