Women's Business Council Philippines

22/08/2026

Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair Cebu 2026: Empowering Women Entrepreneurs, Building Markets, and Connecting Cebu to ASEAN

The Women’s Business Council Philippines (WomenBizPH) successfully brought the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair Cebu 2026 to SM Cebu from August 14–26, 2026, providing a dynamic platform for women entrepreneurs to showcase their products, strengthen market connections, and gain greater visibility in the local and international business community.

The Cebu edition formed part of WomenBizPH’s continuing commitment to advancing women’s economic empowerment.

The trade fair also highlighted the importance of collaboration among the private sector, government, business organizations, local leaders, and the retail industry in creating an enabling environment where women entrepreneurs can grow and compete.

The program opened with Welcome Remarks from Ms. Rosemarie Bosch-Ong, President of WomenBizPH, who underscored the organization’s commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs and strengthening the ecosystem that enables women-owned and women-led enterprises to thrive.

A Brief Background of the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair Cebu and introduction of the program’s speaker was delivered by Ms. Melanie Ng, Member of WomenBizPH Cebu, Visayas Focal Point, and MSME Council Member–Visayas.

The Cebu trade fair showcased the creativity, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit of participating women-owned businesses. Through the exhibition and sales activities, exhibitors had the opportunity to interact directly with consumers, potential buyers, business partners, and members of the business community.

The event received a Message of Support from Mr. Regan Rex King, President of the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry, reflecting the strong partnership between WomenBizPH and Cebu’s business community.

His support highlighted the important role of women entrepreneurs in the region’s economic development and the value of platforms that connect MSMEs with customers, corporations, institutions, and potential markets.

The Department of Trade and Industry Region 7 likewise conveyed its support through Epifania “Joy” Suralta, Assistant Director, DTI Region 7, reinforcing the government’s commitment to strengthening MSMEs and expanding opportunities for entrepreneurs in the Visayas.

The collaboration between WomenBizPH, DTI, the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry, SM Supermalls, and other partners demonstrated how public-private partnerships can create meaningful opportunities for women entrepreneurs.

The program proceeded with the introduction of the keynote speaker, Rhoda Castro-Caliwara, Chairperson of WomenBizPH, followed by the keynote address of Counselor Nyza “Nice” Archival of North Cebu City.

The keynote session provided an opportunity to emphasize the importance of women's participation in economic development, leadership, enterprise development, and community building.

Women entrepreneurs are not only business owners; they are also employers, innovators, community leaders, and contributors to local economic growth. The Women Strong Network platform recognizes this important role and seeks to strengthen the capacity of women entrepreneurs to move from local markets toward broader domestic and international opportunities.

Adding energy and creativity to the program was a Fashion Show featuring WomenBizPH members, with A.T.E. by Tatah Dela Calzada among the featured brands.

The fashion presentation demonstrated how entrepreneurship can intersect with creativity, culture, design, and innovation. It also provided participating entrepreneurs with another avenue to present their brands and products to a broader audience.

A key highlight of the program was the Sales Pitch by Women Strong Network exhibitors, moderated by Ms. Tina Lo, Member of WomenBizPH Cebu.

The sales pitch gave entrepreneurs the opportunity to directly communicate the value of their products, share their entrepreneurial stories, and introduce their brands to potential customers and business partners.

An important component of the program was the Introduction to ASEAN Access, presented by Mylene Abiva, ASEAN Access Ambassador and Director of WomenBizPH.

For many MSMEs, internationalization can appear challenging because of limited information, market knowledge, networks, and resources. Initiatives such as ASEAN Access can help bridge this information gap by connecting entrepreneurs to resources and opportunities that can support their entry into regional markets.

A Video Message from Mr. Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls, provided another important message of support for the Women Strong Network initiative.

The 5 year partnership between WomenBizPH and SM Supermalls demonstrates the important role that retail and commercial platforms can play in giving MSMEs access to consumers and creating opportunities for small businesses to increase their visibility.

The program also featured Ms. Laurie Boquiren, President of CASTILEX, as a knowledge speaker.

Her participation added a business perspective to the program, giving entrepreneurs an opportunity to learn from an experienced business leader and gain insights that can contribute to the growth and sustainability of their enterprises.

A Firechat moderated by Ms. Paulette Liu, Member of WomenBizPH Cebu, created an interactive space for meaningful conversations among entrepreneurs and business stakeholders.

The program also featured testimonials from selected Women Strong Network exhibitors, with Ms. Melita Go, Member of WomenBizPH Cebu, facilitating the session.

The testimonials provided a personal perspective on the impact of the initiative.

These stories reflected the resilience and determination of women entrepreneurs who continue to build businesses while responding to changing consumer demands and an increasingly competitive marketplace. WomenbizPH awarded Computer Laptops for Best in Sales -Millies Food (GenSan) and Besr in Booth Design - Aira bags (Cebu).

The program concluded with Closing Remarks from Ms. Ma. Teresa Chan, Member of WomenBizPH Cebu, who highlighted the importance of sustaining the partnerships and networks developed through the trade fair.

The Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair Cebu 2026 demonstrated that when women entrepreneurs are provided with access to markets, knowledge, networks, mentorship, technology, and supportive institutions, they can create businesses that contribute meaningfully to inclusive economic growth.

With Cebu as an important business and trade hub in the Visayas, the Women Strong Network initiative provided a strategic platform for women entrepreneurs to build stronger brands, reach new customers, forge partnerships, and prepare for opportunities in the ASEAN market.

The message from Cebu is clear: when women entrepreneurs are empowered, markets become stronger, communities become more resilient, and the Philippine economy becomes more inclusive and competitive.

21/08/2026

This November, take your seat at the table. Join Rosemarie Bosch-Ong, President of WomenbizPH, and women leaders across the region as we shape ASEAN's economic future together.

20/08/2026

The countdown starts now!
Block your calendars so you won't miss out.
Who are going to attend?

Government partners.
Business leaders.
Entrepreneurs who want to expand into new markets.

Registration link to follow soon.

Women's Business Council Philippines (WomenbizPH) is the organizer of ASEAN Women Economic Summit 2026 Philippines 🇵🇭 and ASEAN Trade Expo 2026!

The countdown starts now! Block your calendars so you won't miss o...

20/08/2026

Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair Cebu 2026: Empowering Women Entrepreneurs, Building Markets, and Connecting Cebu to ASEAN

The Women’s Business Council Philippines (WomenBizPH) successfully brought the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair Cebu 2026 to SM Cebu from August 14–16, 2026, providing a dynamic platform for women entrepreneurs to showcase their products, strengthen market connections, and gain greater visibility in the local and international business community.

On its 5th year Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair Cebu 2026: empowering women entrepreneurs, opening markets, and building a stronger and more inclusive Philippine MSME sector.

Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair Cebu 2026: Celebrating Women...

15/08/2026

Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair NCR 2026 Celebrates Women Entrepreneurs with Record-Breaking Sales of Over ₱10 Million

Mandaluyong City, Philippines — August 10–12, 2026

The Women’s Business Council Philippines (WomenBizPH) successfully concluded the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair NCR 2026, held from August 10 to 12, 2026 at Fashion Hall, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City, marking another milestone in its continuing mission to empower women entrepreneurs and create greater opportunities for women-led businesses.

Now on its fifth year, the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair NCR is a testament to the enduring partnership between WomenBizPH and SM Megamall through the SM for MSME Program, providing women entrepreneurs with a strategic platform to showcase their products, connect with customers, expand their markets, and strengthen their businesses.

The three-day event brought together women entrepreneurs, government agencies, private-sector partners, business leaders, industry experts, and consumers in a dynamic marketplace designed to turn opportunities into meaningful business growth.

The program opened with Welcome Remarks from WomenBizPH President Rosemarie Bosch-Ong, who highlighted the organization's commitment to creating an enabling environment where women entrepreneurs can thrive.

The Background of the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair NCR was presented by Pinky Yee, providing an overview of the program's development and its continuing role in helping women-led enterprises gain visibility and access to markets.

ASEC Nylah Rizza Bautista of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Competitiveness and Innovation Group (CIG) delivered an Inspirational Message, emphasizing the importance of innovation, competitiveness, and collaboration in enabling MSMEs to grow in an increasingly dynamic marketplace.

A strong message of support was also delivered by Chairperson Ermelita Valdeavilla of the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW), underscoring the importance of advancing women's economic empowerment and strengthening opportunities for women entrepreneurs.

The five-year partnership with SM Supermalls was likewise celebrated, with Mr. Royston Cabunag of SM Supermalls delivering a Message of Support and a special 5th Anniversary Message. Mr. Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls, also conveyed his Message of Support, recognizing the importance of providing MSMEs with access to physical retail spaces and opportunities to reach a wider market.

The program featured a series of learning and engagement activities designed to help exhibitors and women entrepreneurs enhance their business capabilities.

Dr. Genevieve Ledesma-Laurel, a WomenBizPH member, served as Guest Speaker, sharing valuable insights with the participants. The Q&A session was moderated by Sarah Deloraya Mateo, WomenBizPH Auditor, encouraging meaningful interaction between entrepreneurs and the speaker.

The Sales Pitch featuring Women Strong Network members, moderated by Ms. Jen Tongco, gave participating entrepreneurs the opportunity to present their businesses, products, and value propositions—an important exercise in developing confidence, communication skills, and market readiness.

A Recap Video Presentation, prepared and presented by Atty. Dulce Punzalan, WomenBizPH Member, captured the highlights and memorable moments of the Women Strong Network journey.

The event also gave voice to the entrepreneurs themselves through Testimonial Sharing from selected Women Strong Network exhibitors, moderated by Ms. Cynthia Mamon, WomenBizPH Vice President. Their stories reflected the real impact of market access, mentoring, partnerships, and opportunities created through the program.

A key highlight of the program was the Introduction of ASEAN Access, presented by Ms. Mylene Abiva, ASEAN Access Ambassador and WomenBizPH Director.

The presentation introduced ASEAN Access as an important platform for businesses seeking to explore opportunities in the regional market and strengthen their ability to participate in ASEAN trade.

The introduction reinforced WomenBizPH's continuing commitment to help women entrepreneurs move from local enterprise to regional competitiveness.

Celebrating Creativity, Culture and Innovation

The trade fair also celebrated the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of Filipino women through a Fashion Show by House of MUSA by Joy Soo, demonstrating how fashion, design, culture, and entrepreneurship can come together to create new market opportunities.

A Knowledge Session by Ms. Abbie Menor of Globe Business provided entrepreneurs with practical insights on technology and business solutions that can support MSME growth in the digital economy.

The program continued with a Fireside Chat with Women Strong Network Trade Fair NCR exhibitors, moderated by Ms. Charm Tacorda, WomenBizPH Member. The intimate conversation provided a platform for entrepreneurs to share their experiences, challenges, breakthroughs, and lessons learned from participating in the Women Strong Network.

The trade fair culminated in the recognition of outstanding exhibitors who demonstrated excellence in sales performance and creativity.

A computer laptop was awarded as a special prize for Best in Sales to Flaviano's Foods Enterprises of Sta. Rosa, Laguna, recognizing its outstanding sales achievement during the trade fair.

The Best in Booth Design Award was presented to Great Gifts of Davao City, recognizing the enterprise's creativity, visual presentation, and ability to create an attractive and engaging retail experience.

These awards celebrated not only business performance but also the innovation, determination, and entrepreneurial excellence of Women Strong Network members.

The Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair NCR 2026 was more than a three-day selling event. It was a celebration of women's entrepreneurship, partnership, resilience despite inclement weather, , and economic empowerment.

The impressive milestone of more than ₱10 million in cumulative sales over five years demonstrates what can happen when women entrepreneurs are given access to markets, platforms, partnerships, knowledge, and supportive business ecosystems.

Through the continuing partnership of WomenBizPH and SM Supermalls under the SM for MSME Program, women-led MSMEs are given opportunities to move their businesses forward—from visibility to market access, from market access to customer relationships, and from customer relationships to sustainable growth.

As the event drew to a close, Ms. Rhoda Castro-Caliwara, WomenBizPH Chairperson, delivered the Closing Remarks, reinforcing the organization's commitment to continue building opportunities for women entrepreneurs.

The success of the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair NCR 2026 sends a powerful message: when women entrepreneurs support one another, collaborate with government and the private sector, and are provided with meaningful platforms to grow, businesses flourish and communities prosper.

The five-year journey of the Women Strong Network is proof that when women come together with a shared purpose, great things truly happen.

Women Helping Women… Great Things Happen

13/08/2026

Women Entrepreneurs with Record-Breaking Sales of Over ₱10 Million

Mandaluyong City, Philippines — August 10–12, 2026
The Women’s Business Council Philippines (WomenBizPH) successfully concluded the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair NCR 2026, held from August 10 to 12, 2026 at Fashion Hall, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City, marking another milestone in its continuing mission to empower women entrepreneurs and create greater opportunities for women-led businesses.
Now on its fifth year, the Women Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair NCR is a testament to the enduring partnership between WomenBizPH and SM Megamall through the SM for MSME Program, providing women entrepreneurs with a strategic platform to showcase their products, connect with customers, expand their markets, and strengthen their businesses.
The three-day event brought together women entrepreneurs, government agencies, private-sector partners, business leaders, industry experts, and consumers in a dynamic marketplace designed to turn opportunities into meaningful business growth

Women Entrepreneurs with Record-Breaking Sales of Over ₱10 Million...

10/08/2026

10/08/2026

Eleven Member States. One summit. One shared vision.

AWES 2026 convenes government leaders, business executives, entrepreneurs, and development partners from across ASEAN — to turn regional integration into something more useful than a policy phrase: real partnerships, real trade, real growth.

Manila hosts this November. The whole region shows up.

See you at Okada Manila | November 10, 2026

Follow this page — the countdown starts now.

09/08/2026

The Women’s Business Council Philippines (WomenBizPH) held its General Membership Meeting (GMM) on August 4, 2026, at the Ayala Museum, bringing together women entrepreneurs, business leaders, advocates, and stakeholders for an inspiring celebration of Filipino creativity, culture, tourism, and entrepreneurship.

Entitled “LIKHA FILIPINA: Where Arts, Culture, and Tourism Create Opportunities,” the gathering highlighted the growing potential of the creative economy as a powerful driver of inclusive economic development and new opportunities for women entrepreneurs.

The event began with a special museum tour at Ayala Museum, giving WomenBizPH members an opportunity to experience and appreciate the richness of Philippine history, heritage, art, and culture. The tour provided a meaningful backdrop for the day's discussions, demonstrating how museums and cultural institutions can serve not only as keepers of heritage but also as platforms for education, tourism, creativity, and enterprise.

The Creative Economy: Unlocking Opportunities Through Arts, Culture and Tourism

The highlight of the GMM was the panel discussion, “The Creative Economy: Unlocking Opportunities Through Arts, Culture and Tourism,” which brought together distinguished experts and practitioners from the food, heritage, museum, tourism, and hospitality sectors.

The panel featured:

Ms. Clang Garcia, Philippine Ambassador of the World Food Travel Association
Mr. Ivan Dy, Founder, Old Manila Walks
Ms. Aprille Tijam, Associate Director and Head of Exhibitions and Collections, Ayala Museum
Dr. Paulo Tugbang, Director, Health and Wellness Tourism, Department of Tourism Philippines
Ms. Vikki Aquino, Executive Director – Wellness & Leisure, OKADA Manila

The diverse panel underscored how the creative economy goes beyond traditional arts and cultural industries. It encompasses food, heritage, storytelling, tourism, wellness, museums, hospitality, design, experiences, and other creative enterprises that transform Filipino identity and culture into sustainable economic opportunities.

The discussion emphasized the importance of creating experiences that connect people with the Philippines—its stories, traditions, cuisine, destinations, artists, communities, and heritage. These experiences can generate livelihood opportunities, particularly for women-led enterprises and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

The panelists also shared insights on how tourism and culture can be transformed into innovative products and services, while preserving authenticity and strengthening the country's cultural identity.

Women as Drivers of the Creative Economy

For WomenBizPH, the theme of LIKHA FILIPINA reflects the organization's continuing commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs and creating pathways for them to participate meaningfully in emerging sectors of the economy.

Women play a significant role across the creative value chain—from artisans, designers, chefs, artists, tour operators, cultural entrepreneurs, and wellness practitioners to business owners who package Filipino products and experiences for local and international markets. The General Membership Meeting was presided over by Chairperson Rhoda Castro Caliwara, who led the members through the organization's proceedings and reaffirmed WomenBizPH's commitment to advancing women's participation in the economy.

President Rosemarie Bosch Ong presented the President's Milestone Report, highlighting the organization's accomplishments, activities, partnerships, and initiatives that continue to strengthen WomenBizPH's mission of empowering women entrepreneurs and expanding opportunities for women in business.

The report reflected the collective efforts of the WomenBizPH leadership, members, partners, and stakeholders in advancing programs that promote women's entrepreneurship, innovation, digital inclusion, regional cooperation, market access, and sustainable economic growth.