MANILA, Philippines — Two of the country’s most respected retail leaders will take center stage at the 32nd National Retail Conference and Expo (NRCE 2026) as Teresita Sy-Coson, Vice Chairperson of SM Investments Corporation, and Steven Tan, President of SM Supermalls, headline an exclusive fireside conversation moderated by internationally acclaimed broadcast journalist Rico Hizon.

Organized by the Philippine Retailers Association (PRA) as part of its 50th Anniversary celebration, the fireside session is expected to be one of the conference’s most anticipated highlights, offering attendees a rare opportunity to hear directly from leaders whose work has helped shape one of the Philippines’ most influential business organizations.

The conversation will focus on leadership, business, and the continuing evolution of Philippine retail—providing insights from decades of experience leading one of the country’s most recognized retail institutions. Rather than a keynote presentation, the fireside format allows for a more engaging and personal discussion, giving participants a unique perspective on leadership and the changing retail landscape.

SM’s story began with a single Shoe Mart store founded by the late Henry Sy Sr. and has since grown into one of the Philippines’ largest and most diversified business groups. Today, the SM brand has become synonymous with modern retail, shopping malls, banking, property development, and investments that continue to serve millions of Filipinos.

As Vice Chairperson of SM Investments Corporation, Teresita Sy-Coson has played a pivotal role in the company’s continued growth and strategic direction. Joining her is Steven Tan, who leads SM Supermalls, the country’s largest mall developer and operator, and has been instrumental in driving innovation and enhancing customer experiences across its nationwide network.

Moderating the discussion is Rico Hizon, one of Asia’s most respected broadcast journalists, whose decades of experience interviewing global business and government leaders promise an engaging and insightful conversation.

The fireside conversation forms part of the 32nd National Retail Conference and Expo, the country’s premier retail conference that annually gathers retailers, entrepreneurs, executives, and industry stakeholders to exchange ideas and explore the future of commerce. This year’s edition is themed “New. Next. Forward.” and will be held on August 6–7, 2026, at the SMX Convention Center Manila.

Registration for NRCE 2026 is already closed. Entrepreneurs, retailers, business owners, executives, startups, and aspiring industry leaders are encouraged to join the expo to learn about the latest trends, technologies, and solutions transforming the retail industry.

Visit www.nrce-ph.com

—

via The Philippines Herald

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Etiqa Philippines recently celebrated its seventh anniversary as the Etiqa brand, marking seven years since the company joined Etiqa International Holdings, the insurance arm of the Maybank Group. While the Etiqa name was introduced in the Philippines in 2019, the company traces its roots back to 1958, giving it nearly 70 years of insurance expertise in serving Filipino individuals, families, and businesses. The milestone reflects not only seven years of transformation under the Etiqa brand but also a legacy of protection and service that spans generations.

“Seven years as Etiqa represents more than a brand milestone. It reflects our continuous journey of transforming insurance to better serve the evolving needs of Filipinos,” said Anthony Lou Bernabe, president and CEO of Etiqa Philippines. “Guided by our purpose of humanizing insurance, we remain committed to simplifying protection, strengthening customer relationships, and delivering on the promises we make to every customer, partner, and community we serve.”

Backed by the strength of the Maybank Group, one of ASEAN’s leading financial services groups, Etiqa provides customers with access to a broad ecosystem of insurance and financial solutions. Through its exclusive bancassurance partnership with Maybank Philippines and its Employee Benefits and Group Insurance business, the company serves both individual and corporate clients locally and internationally, including multinational organizations through its partnership with Insurope.

As one of the few insurers in the country with a composite license, Etiqa offers life, non-life, as well as Takaful solutions, under one organization. As a pioneer of Takaful in the Philippines, the company continues to expand access to inclusive and ethical protection offerings for diverse and underserved communities.

One of Etiqa’s defining achievements over the past year has been its operational transformation to strengthen reliability, improve service delivery, and rebuild customer confidence. Throughout 2025, the company enhanced claims management, strengthened provider relationships, accelerated turnaround times, and elevated customer service standards, resulting in a significantly improved customer experience for customers, healthcare providers, and business partners.

These efforts translated into meaningful support when customers needed it most. In 2025 alone, Etiqa paid more than ₱3.8 billion in insurance claims, underscoring its commitment to honoring its promises and providing financial protection during life’s most critical moments.

This customer-first approach has earned Etiqa consistent recognition from the Insurance Asia Awards since 2021 for initiatives in customer experience, customer service, and corporate social responsibility. The company’s move to its new LEED-certified headquarters at The Atrium in Makati further reflects its commitment to innovation, employee well-being, and sustainability.

Seven years after becoming Etiqa, the company continues to build on its legacy with stronger partnerships, operational excellence, and people-centered innovation. Backed by the strength of the Maybank Group and guided by its purpose of humanizing insurance, Etiqa remains committed to making protection more accessible, reliable, and meaningful for Filipinos—today and for generations to come.

The post Etiqa Philippines Marks Seven Years of Growth, Innovation, and Customer Confidence appeared first on World Headlines.

Cebuana Lhuillier serves millions of customers through a network of over 3,500 branches nationwide — one of the most extensive financial service footprints in the country. For many Filipinos, particularly those in underserved communities, Cebuana Lhuillier branches are the primary point of access for money transfers and payments which firmly positions the company as the Philippine’s Financial gateway in the cross-border and payments space. However, across the broader financial industry, the infrastructure underpinning these transfers has changed little over the decades. Transactions remain slow, expensive, and constrained by legacy settlement rails that were not built for a digital-first economy.

The pressure to modernise has never been greater. According to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), digital payments accounted for 57.4% of retail payment volume in 2024 up from around 1% in 2013 reflecting a rapid structural shift toward digital financial channels in the Philippines. The BSP’s latest data also shows that digital payments reached 59% of total transaction value, underscoring broad-based adoption across the economy. With the central bank targeting 60–70% digitalization of retail payments by 2028, the Philippines continues to move decisively toward a more cash-lite economy, signaling a sustained transformation in consumer behavior that incumbent networks must keep pace with to remain relevant.

Cebuana Lhuillier selected Fireblocks as its infrastructure provider to address this challenge, building a stablecoin-powered payment rail capable of near-instant settlements at a fraction of the cost of traditional infrastructure. The platform leverages the Fireblocks’ Network for Payments, wallet technology, reconciliation tools, and deep blockchain network connectivity to deliver secure, compliant, and programmable payment flows across Cebuana Lhuillier’s ecosystem. Fireblocks enable Cebuana and its global partners to fund one another directly – accelerating liquidity across the entire remittance network.

“Our customers are not waiting for the future – they are already living in it,” said Jean Henri Lhuillier, President and CEO of Cebuana Lhuillier. “They send money on their phones; they expect it to arrive instantly. Collaborating with Fireblocks gives us the infrastructure to deliver on that expectation at scale – across every branch, every corridor, and every family we serve. This is about making sure that modernisation reaches everyone, not just those with access to the latest fintech apps.”

Meanwhile, for Ran Goldi, SVP of Payments and Network at Fireblocks, “Cebuana Lhuillier is one of the most deeply embedded financial institutions in the Philippines, touching communities that larger banks simply do not reach,” he said. “This collaboration brings institutional-grade blockchain infrastructure to one of the world’s most dynamic remittance corridors and empowers Cebuana Lhuillier to set a new standard for how money moves across borders.”

The solution is designed to meet customers where they are: maintaining the trusted branch network that communities rely on, while dramatically upgrading the rails beneath it. By replacing slow, expensive settlement processes with programmable stable coin flows, Cebuana Lhuillier can offer faster access to funds, lower bulk-transfer costs, and a foundation to expand into new digital financial services over time.

This initiative is further supported by Solana, a blockchain platform recognized for its speed, scalability, and cost-efficient transaction architecture. This reflects the growing ecosystem confidence in Cebuana Lhuillier’s strategy and supports the continued exploration of scalable blockchain-enabled payment solutions.

Through this collaboration, Cebuana Lhuillier reinforces its commitment to building a more inclusive and future-ready financial ecosystem — one that combines the trust of its nationwide physical network with the speed, efficiency, and innovation of blockchain technology. As digital adoption continues to accelerate across the Philippines, the company remains focused on delivering financial solutions that are faster, more accessible, and responsive to the evolving needs of Filipinos everywhere.

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Recognizing the growing risks associated with digital impersonation, Copperstone Lending Inc. has intensified its consumer education campaign to help borrowers distinguish authentic MocaMoca services from fraudulent websites, fake social media pages, and unauthorized individuals attempting to misuse the company’s brand.

The initiative forms part of the company’s broader commitment to promoting responsible digital lending and strengthening consumer confidence in the country’s growing fintech ecosystem.

Protecting Consumers in the Digital Age

The convenience of online lending has made financial services more accessible to millions of Filipinos. However, it has also created opportunities for cybercriminals and scammers to exploit well-known brands by creating fake websites, social media accounts, and unauthorized communication channels designed to deceive unsuspecting borrowers.

Copperstone Lending reminds consumers that protecting personal information begins with verifying whether they are dealing with legitimate platforms before submitting any documents, personal data, or payments.

The company encourages borrowers to transact only through official MocaMoca communication channels and to exercise caution when encountering suspicious advertisements, unofficial links, or individuals claiming to represent the company without proper verification.

Why Verification Matters

Fraudulent lending schemes can expose consumers to various risks, including identity theft, financial loss, unauthorized use of personal information, and phishing attacks.

Consumers are advised to carefully review application details, verify official contact information, and avoid responding to unsolicited messages requesting sensitive personal information or advance payments.

By taking a few extra moments to confirm the legitimacy of a lending platform, borrowers can significantly reduce their risk of becoming victims of online scams.

Building Trust Through Responsible Lending

Copperstone Lending emphasized that consumer protection remains one of the company’s highest priorities.

The company continues to promote transparency, responsible lending practices, and ethical customer engagement while encouraging borrowers to make informed financial decisions.

Beyond providing accessible lending solutions, Copperstone believes that educating consumers about digital safety is equally important in creating a healthier and more secure financial ecosystem.

This ongoing awareness campaign reflects the company’s long-term commitment to helping Filipinos safely navigate the rapidly evolving digital finance landscape.

MocaMoca Is a Legitimate Online Lending Platform

As part of its public information campaign, Copperstone Lending also reminds borrowers that MocaMoca is legit and operates under Copperstone Lending Inc., a lending company that has continuously strengthened its compliance, consumer protection initiatives, and responsible lending practices.

The company encourages borrowers to obtain information only from official MocaMoca channels and to ignore fake pages, unofficial groups, or unauthorized individuals pretending to represent the brand.

Verifying the authenticity of communication channels before providing personal information is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to protect oneself against online fraud.

Shared Responsibility Against Online Fraud

Copperstone Lending believes that combating digital fraud requires cooperation among financial institutions, regulators, technology providers, and consumers.

As online financial services continue to evolve, industry-wide collaboration will remain essential in strengthening public trust, improving cybersecurity awareness, and protecting borrowers from emerging digital threats.

The company encourages consumers to stay informed, remain vigilant, and report suspicious activities whenever they encounter entities claiming to represent MocaMoca or Copperstone Lending without proper verification.

Continuing Commitment to Consumer Education

Consumer education remains a cornerstone of Copperstone Lending’s advocacy for responsible digital finance.

Through continuous awareness campaigns, customer support initiatives, and information-sharing efforts, the company aims to empower borrowers with the knowledge needed to make safer financial decisions while reducing the risks associated with online scams.

As more Filipinos embrace digital lending solutions, Copperstone Lending reaffirms its commitment to providing secure, transparent, and responsible financial services while helping consumers confidently identify legitimate providers in an increasingly connected digital economy.

The post Copperstone Lending Strengthens Consumer Awareness Drive Against Fake Loan Apps and Online Impersonation appeared first on World Headlines.

Recognizing the growing risks associated with digital impersonation, Copperstone Lending Inc. has intensified its consumer education campaign to help borrowers distinguish authentic MocaMoca services from fraudulent websites, fake social media pages, and unauthorized individuals attempting to misuse the company’s brand.

The initiative forms part of the company’s broader commitment to promoting responsible digital lending and strengthening consumer confidence in the country’s growing fintech ecosystem.

Protecting Consumers in the Digital Age

The convenience of online lending has made financial services more accessible to millions of Filipinos. However, it has also created opportunities for cybercriminals and scammers to exploit well-known brands by creating fake websites, social media accounts, and unauthorized communication channels designed to deceive unsuspecting borrowers.

Copperstone Lending reminds consumers that protecting personal information begins with verifying whether they are dealing with legitimate platforms before submitting any documents, personal data, or payments.

The company encourages borrowers to transact only through official MocaMoca communication channels and to exercise caution when encountering suspicious advertisements, unofficial links, or individuals claiming to represent the company without proper verification.

Why Verification Matters

Fraudulent lending schemes can expose consumers to various risks, including identity theft, financial loss, unauthorized use of personal information, and phishing attacks.

Consumers are advised to carefully review application details, verify official contact information, and avoid responding to unsolicited messages requesting sensitive personal information or advance payments.

By taking a few extra moments to confirm the legitimacy of a lending platform, borrowers can significantly reduce their risk of becoming victims of online scams.

Building Trust Through Responsible Lending

Copperstone Lending emphasized that consumer protection remains one of the company’s highest priorities.

The company continues to promote transparency, responsible lending practices, and ethical customer engagement while encouraging borrowers to make informed financial decisions.

Beyond providing accessible lending solutions, Copperstone believes that educating consumers about digital safety is equally important in creating a healthier and more secure financial ecosystem.

This ongoing awareness campaign reflects the company’s long-term commitment to helping Filipinos safely navigate the rapidly evolving digital finance landscape.

MocaMoca Is a Legitimate Online Lending Platform

As part of its public information campaign, Copperstone Lending also reminds borrowers that MocaMoca is legit and operates under Copperstone Lending Inc., a lending company that has continuously strengthened its compliance, consumer protection initiatives, and responsible lending practices.

The company encourages borrowers to obtain information only from official MocaMoca channels and to ignore fake pages, unofficial groups, or unauthorized individuals pretending to represent the brand.

Verifying the authenticity of communication channels before providing personal information is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to protect oneself against online fraud.

Shared Responsibility Against Online Fraud

Copperstone Lending believes that combating digital fraud requires cooperation among financial institutions, regulators, technology providers, and consumers.

As online financial services continue to evolve, industry-wide collaboration will remain essential in strengthening public trust, improving cybersecurity awareness, and protecting borrowers from emerging digital threats.

The company encourages consumers to stay informed, remain vigilant, and report suspicious activities whenever they encounter entities claiming to represent MocaMoca or Copperstone Lending without proper verification.

Continuing Commitment to Consumer Education

Consumer education remains a cornerstone of Copperstone Lending’s advocacy for responsible digital finance.

Through continuous awareness campaigns, customer support initiatives, and information-sharing efforts, the company aims to empower borrowers with the knowledge needed to make safer financial decisions while reducing the risks associated with online scams.

As more Filipinos embrace digital lending solutions, Copperstone Lending reaffirms its commitment to providing secure, transparent, and responsible financial services while helping consumers confidently identify legitimate providers in an increasingly connected digital economy.

The post Copperstone Lending Strengthens Consumer Awareness Drive Against Fake Loan Apps and Online Impersonation appeared first on World Headlines.

With almost three decades of technology sector experience, Siow has served in multiple capacities during her fifteen-year tenure at SAP, most recently as the Business Suite Leader APAC, driving cloud growth and the end-to-end customer value journey. Prior to that, she was SAP’s Southeast Asia President and Managing Director.

Manos Raptopoulos, Chief Revenue Officer for APAC, EMEA, and MEE, said “Our business is fuelled by accelerated AI innovation, underpinned by our purpose, our people, and our partnerships. Verena brings deep regional expertise, focus on customer success, and exceptional leadership to this important growth market.”

Verena Siow said “It’s a pivotal time to take the reins at SAP Asia Pacific. Our vision for the Autonomous Enterprise connecting data, processes, and people seamlessly, is delivering real outcomes for customers as they reinvent their businesses for the AI era.” 

With SAP market units operating in Australia and New Zealand, Greater China, India, Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia, SAP employs more than 50,000 people across 46 offices and SAP Labs locations in Asia Pacific. SAP works with tens of thousands of customers in Asia Pacific, including NEC Corporation, Coles Group, Wipro, Alibaba Group, Fujitsu Limited, Hyundai Motor Corporation, Fonterra, Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads, and Asian Paints. 

# # #

About SAP
As a global leader in enterprise applications and business AI, SAP (NYSE:SAP) stands at the nexus of business and technology. For over 50 years, organizations have trusted SAP to bring out their best by uniting business-critical operations spanning finance, procurement, HR, supply chain, and customer experience. For more information, visit www.sap.com.

The post Verena Siow named new SAP Regional President, Asia Pacific  appeared first on World Headlines.

The retail industry is entering one of the most transformative periods in its history.

Artificial intelligence is changing how consumers discover products. Customer expectations continue to evolve. Supply chains are becoming more interconnected and complex. Digital technologies are redefining business operations. New brands are disrupting established players, while retailers across the Philippines face a common challenge:

How do you stay relevant in a world that refuses to stand still?

For business owners, retail executives, entrepreneurs, marketers, technology providers, and decision-makers, the answers may be found at the 32nd National Retail Conference and Expo (NRCE 2026), happening on August 6–7, 2026, at the SMX Convention Center Manila.

Organized by the Philippine Retailers Association (PRA), this year’s event carries special significance as the organization celebrates its 50th Anniversary, marking five decades of leadership, advocacy, and service to the Philippine retail industry.

With the theme “New. Next. Forward.”, NRCE 2026 serves as both a celebration of the industry’s achievements and a roadmap for navigating the future.

More than a conference, it is where the country’s retail leaders come together to exchange ideas, discover innovations, build partnerships, and prepare for what’s next.

A Golden Milestone for Philippine Retail

The year 2026 marks a historic milestone for the Philippine Retailers Association.

For fifty years, PRA has championed the interests of retailers, helping businesses navigate economic shifts, industry disruptions, changing consumer behavior, and emerging technologies. Through advocacy, education, networking, and industry development initiatives, PRA has played a pivotal role in shaping modern Philippine retail.

As the organization celebrates its Golden Anniversary, NRCE 2026 becomes more than an annual gathering.

It becomes a reflection of how far Philippine retail has come—and an opportunity to define where it is headed next.

At a time when businesses are adapting to rapid technological change and evolving customer expectations, PRA’s 50th year serves as a reminder that resilience, innovation, and collaboration remain the foundations of long-term growth.

Opening Keynotes from Global Retail and Supply Chain Leaders

Setting the tone for this year’s conference are two distinguished Opening Keynote Speakers whose careers have helped shape retail and commerce across Asia and beyond.

V.P. Sharma: Building One of Southeast Asia’s Retail Giants

One of the most anticipated speakers at NRCE 2026 is V.P. Sharma, Founder and Group CEO of MAP Group Indonesia.

Widely regarded as one of Asia’s most accomplished retail entrepreneurs, Sharma transformed MAP Group from a single retail operation into a regional powerhouse with thousands of locations and a portfolio of globally recognized brands.

His keynote is expected to offer invaluable lessons on leadership, customer-centricity, sustainable growth, organizational resilience, and long-term business building.

In an era often focused on short-term results, Sharma’s journey demonstrates the power of vision, discipline, and consistent execution.

Joseph Phi: Reimagining the Future of Global Commerce

Joining Sharma as a Keynote Speaker is Joseph Phi, Group CEO of Li & Fung, one of the world’s most influential supply chain and sourcing companies.

With decades of experience leading global commerce, supply chain transformation, and operational innovation, Phi brings a unique perspective on how retailers can remain competitive in an increasingly interconnected world.

As supply chains continue to evolve amid shifting consumer demands and global market dynamics, his insights are expected to provide attendees with practical strategies for building agility, resilience, and long-term growth.

Together, Sharma and Phi represent two critical pillars of modern retail success: customer-centric retail leadership and world-class supply chain excellence.

Why NRCE Matters More Than Ever

Retail today extends far beyond products and physical stores.

Success now depends on understanding customers across multiple touchpoints, leveraging data effectively, embracing innovation, strengthening supply chains, adopting new technologies, and creating memorable customer experiences.

The organizations that thrive over the next decade will not necessarily be the largest.

They will be the most adaptable.

NRCE 2026 brings together some of the most influential minds in retail, marketing, leadership, technology, logistics, venture capital, and innovation to help businesses understand and navigate these changes.

Over two days, attendees will gain access to keynote presentations, expert-led discussions, case studies, networking opportunities, and a world-class retail expo showcasing solutions that are transforming the industry.

Leadership Remains the Ultimate Competitive Advantage

Technology may be changing the way businesses operate, but leadership remains one of the most important differentiators in any organization.

This is why NRCE 2026 welcomes Louie Banta, CEO and Chief Training Consultant of Learning Just Made Better, Inc.

Having trained leaders across 24 countries and worked with more than 500 organizations worldwide, Banta brings decades of expertise in leadership development, organizational effectiveness, and people transformation.

His session is expected to provide practical insights on leading through uncertainty, building resilient teams, managing change, and creating cultures that thrive in dynamic environments.

Making Sense of AI for Retail

Few topics are generating as much discussion in business today as artificial intelligence.

Retailers understand that AI is changing the landscape, but many continue to ask the same question:

Where do we start?

NRCE 2026 addresses this challenge through a practical session led by RJ Paculan, Managing Director of TBWA\SMP, and Paolo Broma, Chief Marketing Officer of TBWA\SMP.

Rather than focusing on technical jargon, their discussion will explore practical applications of AI, automation, generative search, customer engagement, content creation, and workflow optimization.

Their message is simple: successful AI adoption starts with understanding business problems first and applying the right technologies to solve them.

The future belongs not to organizations that merely understand AI, but to those that know how to apply it effectively.

Understanding the New Customer

Customer expectations continue to evolve at an unprecedented pace.

Retailers today have access to more data than ever before, yet many still struggle to convert information into meaningful action.

This is where Sunita Howe, Head of Marketing for Southeast Asia and India at Meltwater, brings valuable insight.

Her expertise in media intelligence, customer analytics, and brand growth offers retailers a deeper understanding of how data-driven decision-making can strengthen customer engagement, improve marketing performance, and create sustainable competitive advantages.

Investing in the Next Generation of Retail

Innovation often begins long before a company becomes successful.

It starts with identifying opportunities before they become obvious.

That perspective makes Joan Yao, General Partner at Kickstart Ventures, one of the conference’s most anticipated speakers.

Having invested in transformative companies including Xendit, Pickup Coffee, Kumu, Edamama, and Sprout, Yao brings firsthand experience in identifying emerging trends and helping businesses scale.

Her session will provide valuable insights into innovation, entrepreneurship, startup ecosystems, and the future of Southeast Asian business.

Beyond the Stage: A Complete Retail Innovation Ecosystem

NRCE 2026 extends beyond conference sessions.

The event’s expo floor will feature technology providers, retail solution companies, logistics partners, customer engagement platforms, service providers, and innovators from across the region.

Attendees will have opportunities to:

• Discover emerging retail technologies
• Explore AI-powered business solutions
• Learn about customer engagement innovations
• Evaluate logistics and fulfillment platforms
• Connect with suppliers and technology partners
• Build strategic business relationships
• Explore new growth opportunities

For many participants, the connections made during NRCE become just as valuable as the insights shared on stage.

Why You Should Attend NRCE 2026

Whether you are a retailer, entrepreneur, startup founder, investor, marketer, technology provider, supply chain executive, or business leader, the issues being discussed at NRCE directly impact your future success.

Artificial intelligence.

Customer experience.

Leadership.

Innovation.

Supply chain transformation.

Data-driven decision-making.

Business growth.

These are no longer future considerations.

They are today’s realities.

The organizations that understand these shifts earliest often gain the greatest competitive advantage.

Be Part of What’s Next

As the Philippine Retailers Association celebrates its 50th year, NRCE 2026 promises to be one of the most significant gatherings in the event’s history.

It is where industry leaders come together to learn, connect, innovate, and prepare for the future.

The future of retail will not be shaped by those who wait for change.

It will be shaped by those who help create it.

Event Details

August 6–7, 2026
SMX Convention Center Manila
Register now: www.nrce-ph.com

The Future of Retail Starts Here

New technologies are emerging.

New customer expectations are forming.

New opportunities are waiting.

The question is simple:

Will your business be ready for what’s next?

Join thousands of retailers, innovators, entrepreneurs, and decision-makers at NRCE 2026 and become part of the movement shaping the future of Philippine retail.

New. Next. Forward.

The post NRCE 2026: The Future of Philippine Retail Takes Center Stage This August appeared first on World Headlines.

The new route commenced on 21 June 2026 and will operate twice weekly, on Sundays and Tuesdays, with a flight time of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Aero Dili’s entry into this route adds to existing services currently provided by Australian carriers Qantas and Air North. There are now 12 weekly direct flights from Timor-Leste to Australia, providing fast and convenient connections across the Timor Sea for leisure travellers, business visitors, diaspora communities, and partners in government, trade, and education.

The service is expected to support increased visitor arrivals from Australia, provide more choice for travellers, and create new opportunities for tourism operators, accommodation providers, cultural attractions, and local communities across Timor-Leste.

“We congratulate Aero Dili on this milestone. This new direct Darwin–Dili service is an important step forward for Timor-Leste’s tourism sector,” said Antonio da Silva, Director General of Tourism. “Australia remains a priority market for Timor-Leste tourism, with the Northern Territory offering a natural gateway for short-break, adventure, diving, cultural, and business travel.”

Aero Dili is Timor-Leste’s national carrier, headquartered in Dili with its hub at Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport. Established in 2018, the airline operates Airbus aircraft and is expanding international connections that support Timor-Leste’s tourism, trade, and regional engagement. Darwin is Aero Dili’s first Australian destination and expands the airline’s international network, which also includes services to Bali, Singapore, Malaysia, and China. In November 2026, the airline plans to start operating a Dili–Melbourne service.

ABOUT TIMOR-LESTE: Named by multiple publications as one of the top 20 countries to visit in 2026, Timor-Leste is emerging as one of Southeast Asia’s most compelling travel destinations, offering visitors authentic, unspoiled experiences. With a distinctive blend of Timorese culture and Portuguese heritage, the country is home to pristine beaches, exceptionally rich coral reefs, world-class diving, dramatic mountain landscapes, and traditional villages. With direct international air links to Australia, Bali, China, Malaysia, and Singapore, Timor-Leste invites travellers to discover rich traditions, remarkable natural beauty, and warm hospitality in a destination that remains refreshingly untouched. For more information, visit www.timorleste.tl

The post Aero Dili’s New Direct Darwin–Dili Service to Help Boost Timor-Leste Tourism appeared first on World Headlines.

Organized by the Israeli Ministry of Economy and Industry through TradeIL Philippines, the business-to-business (B2B) forum brought together Philippine and Israeli companies to explore strategic partnerships aimed at accelerating innovation, strengthening digital infrastructure, and expanding economic opportunities in both countries.

The event highlighted the complementary strengths of the two nations. With a population of approximately 118 million, the Philippines offers a large talent pool, a dynamic consumer market, and a growing digital economy. Israel, often referred to as the “Startup Nation,” brings world-class expertise in technology, cybersecurity, healthcare innovation, satellite communications, and advanced digital solutions.

Building Bridges Through Innovation

The forum served as a platform for structured, demand-driven engagements between local businesses and Israeli technology providers, fostering discussions on how innovation can address challenges in digital adoption, cybersecurity, connectivity, and business resilience.

Industry leaders emphasized that collaboration between Filipino and Israeli enterprises could help accelerate digital transformation while creating opportunities for knowledge exchange, technology transfer, and workforce development.

Ofek Venecianer | Photo by: George Buid

According to Ofek Venecianer, Economic Counselor of TradeIL Philippines, the country presents strong growth potential for Israeli businesses seeking to expand in Southeast Asia.

“The Philippines is a suitable environment for Israeli companies to expand and scale up their operations,” Venecianer said.

Leading Israeli Technology Firms Showcase Solutions

Several globally recognized Israeli companies participated in the forum, presenting innovations across key sectors critical to economic development and digital transformation.

Among the participating companies were:

• Amdocs, a global provider of software and services for communications and media companies.
• Cato Networks, a leader in Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) and AI-powered cybersecurity solutions.
• Gilat Satellite Networks, known for its satellite-based broadband and connectivity technologies.
• Spacecom, operator of the AMOS satellite fleet serving customers across Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.
• Symmetrium, a provider of secure mobile workspace and cybersecurity solutions.

The participating firms introduced technologies designed to support telecommunications, cybersecurity, healthcare, agriculture, energy, and digital infrastructure development.

Cybersecurity, Healthcare, and Space Technology Identified as Key Areas of Cooperation

Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines Dana Kursh highlighted the complementary strengths of both countries, noting that while Israel has built a strong reputation in cybersecurity and advanced technologies, the Philippines has demonstrated leadership in digital financial services and financial technology adoption.

The ambassador cited platforms such as GCash as examples of the country’s success in integrating digital payments into everyday life.

Israeli Ambassador Dana Kursh | Photo by: George Buid

Kursh also identified healthcare and space technology as promising areas for future collaboration.

According to the ambassador, healthcare partnerships are already taking shape through ongoing projects involving Rizal Medical Center, while satellite and space technologies present significant opportunities to improve connectivity, disaster resilience, and digital inclusion across the Philippines.

“The future of the Philippines lies in satellite and space technology, an area where Israel has made significant breakthroughs,” Ambassador Kursh said.

Supporting the Philippines’ Digital Transformation Agenda

Experts at the forum noted that stronger cooperation between the Philippines and Israel could contribute to the country’s broader digital transformation goals by providing access to advanced technologies, cybersecurity capabilities, and innovative business solutions.

The partnership is expected to help strengthen network resilience, modernize industries, improve digital infrastructure, and support the development of a more competitive and technology-driven economy.

Business leaders also emphasized that cultural compatibility between Filipino and Israeli enterprises could serve as a strong foundation for long-term collaboration. Filipino organizations are known for their collaborative and relationship-driven approach, while Israeli companies are recognized globally for innovation and problem-solving.

Growing Opportunities for Long-Term Economic Cooperation

As global economies become increasingly interconnected, the Philippines-Israel technology partnership reflects a broader trend toward international collaboration in innovation and digital development.

With the Philippines offering market scale, talent, and economic growth opportunities, and Israel contributing cutting-edge technological expertise, both countries stand to benefit from deeper cooperation across multiple sectors.

Industry stakeholders expressed optimism that the forum will pave the way for future business missions, technology exchanges, investment opportunities, and collaborative projects that support sustainable economic growth and digital advancement.

As both nations continue to strengthen ties, the growing partnership signals a shared commitment to leveraging technology and innovation as drivers of economic progress in an increasingly digital world.

The post Philippines and Israel Strengthen Technology Partnership Through Strategic Business Forum appeared first on World Headlines.

Held under the theme “Legacy in Motion: Empowering Growth to the Nation,” the two-day event featured over 190 exhibitors, more than 260 business solutions providers, and a comprehensive lineup of conferences, mentoring sessions, networking activities, business matching opportunities, and industry discussions designed to support the growth of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across the country.

The strong turnout underscored the growing demand among Filipino entrepreneurs for meaningful business relationships, practical learning opportunities, and access to industry leaders beyond online platforms.

The expo officially opened with a ceremonial program led by PHILSME CEO and Managing Director Trixie Esguerra-Abrenilla, together with Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Undersecretary Blesila Lantayona, sponsors, exhibitors, and key stakeholders from the business community.

Veteran broadcaster David Celdran, who hosted the event, emphasized the role of collaboration in strengthening the country’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

“Every edition of this Expo is a testament to what happens when a community truly believes in one another and in the power of Filipino business,” Celdran said during the opening ceremony.

DTI Highlights MSMEs’ Role in Nation Building

One of the event’s key moments was the keynote address delivered by DTI Undersecretary Blesila Lantayona, who emphasized the critical role of MSMEs in driving economic growth and community development.

“The true legacy of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises is not only measured by profit. It is measured by the lives that we improve, the communities that we strengthen, and the future that we help build for every Filipino,” Lantayona said.

Her message resonated with attendees who continue to navigate evolving market conditions while seeking innovative ways to grow their businesses.

PHILSME Launches Inaugural Business Magazine

A major highlight of the expo was the official launch of the first-ever PHILSME Business Magazine, marking a significant expansion of the organization’s role in promoting entrepreneurship beyond the exhibition floor.

Entrepreneurs, partners, featured personalities, and community leaders gather at the PHILSME Business Magazine exhibit during the 18th Philippine SME (PHILSME) Business Expo & Conference at SMX Convention Center Manila, following the launch of the platform’s first-ever business magazine highlighting Filipino entrepreneurship, leadership, and innovation.

Introduced by PHILSME Media Director and Editor Angie Quadra-Balibay, the publication aims to spotlight the stories, challenges, and achievements of Filipino entrepreneurs and business leaders.

“Today, PHILSME expands beyond the expo floor. For the first time, we are launching the PHILSME Business Magazine—a publication built around the lives, decisions, and defining moments behind Filipino enterprise,” Quadra-Balibay said during the unveiling ceremony.

The launch included a magazine exhibit featuring entrepreneurs, founders, writers, and contributors showcased in the inaugural issue.

Industry Leaders Discuss Innovation and MSME Growth

The official PHILSME Media Presser brought together industry experts to discuss emerging trends and opportunities shaping the future of Filipino businesses.

Panelists included PHILSME CEO Trixie Esguerra-Abrenilla, Mike Tabaday of Skyro, Paul Albano of GCash for Business, Curtis Ko of Adobe, and Ronnel Jovita of Esquire Financing.

Discussions focused on financing accessibility, digital payments, AI-powered creative tools, marketing visibility, and practical solutions that can help MSMEs scale and remain competitive in an increasingly digital economy.

Meet Up Space Becomes a Center for Learning and Collaboration

Industry partners and business leaders participate in the official PHILSME Media Presser, where discussions focused on MSME financing, digital payments, AI-powered tools, entrepreneurship, and business growth opportunities for Filipino enterprises.

One of the busiest areas throughout the event was the PHILSME Meet Up Space, which hosted a continuous lineup of mentorship sessions, founder meetups, networking activities, and community discussions.

Participants engaged in learning sessions led by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Quezon City, AI business mentor Dean Pax Lapid, and representatives from Toastmasters International.

The venue also hosted gatherings organized by the Kapayaman Community, PH Business Network, and Kasosyong Malupet Group, creating valuable opportunities for entrepreneurs to connect and exchange insights.

A special recognition ceremony for new members of the PHILSME Business Network further highlighted the organization’s commitment to building a stronger entrepreneurial community nationwide.

Business Experts Share Insights on Growth and Leadership

The conference featured an impressive roster of speakers who tackled topics ranging from entrepreneurship and innovation to taxation, branding, leadership, and business growth.

Among the featured speakers were motivational entrepreneur Bo Sanchez, Blogapalooza founder Ace Gapuz, entrepreneur Reymond “Boss RDR” delos Reyes, tax educator Ed Cervantes, Design-Ed Learning Solutions President Boni De Jesus, Write Send Convert founder John Pagulayan, SureSuccess Global CEO Jojo Apolo, Pinay Girl Boss founder Atty. Kristina “Tina” De Guzman, and DOST Regional Director Dr. Bernardo “Aido” Sepeda.

Their presentations provided attendees with practical strategies and actionable insights to help navigate today’s rapidly changing business environment.

Overseas Filipino Entrepreneurs Share Global Perspectives

A special panel discussion organized by GMA Pinoy TV, titled “The Overseas Filipino Advantage: What Working Overseas Teaches About Entrepreneurship,” explored how international experience contributes to entrepreneurial success.

The panel featured Dubai-based entrepreneurs Nico de Guzman and Karl de Guzman, maritime entrepreneur Captain Marlon Cataquis, and Esguerra-Abrenilla herself, who divides her time between Germany and the Philippines.

Speakers discussed how global exposure, international networks, and overseas work experiences are helping shape the next generation of Filipino entrepreneurs and business leaders.

Strengthening the Philippine Entrepreneurial Ecosystem

Throughout the two-day event, exhibitors and participants reported strong business engagement, partnership discussions, customer inquiries, and networking opportunities.

Attendees explore exhibitor booths, conference sessions, networking areas, and business activities during the 18th Philippine SME (PHILSME) Business Expo & Conference, which gathered more than 10,000 entrepreneurs, startups, executives, and business professionals at SMX Convention Center Manila.

The sustained activity across conference halls, exhibitor booths, consultation areas, and networking spaces reinforced PHILSME’s growing role as one of the country’s leading platforms for entrepreneurship, innovation, franchising, and SME development.

As digital transformation continues to reshape business operations, the success of PHILSME 2026 demonstrated that entrepreneurs still value authentic human connections, mentorship, and collaborative environments where meaningful business relationships can be built.

Organizers said PHILSME continues to evolve beyond a traditional trade exhibition into a year-round business ecosystem that supports Filipino entrepreneurs, founders, innovators, and industry communities.

Building on the success of this year’s event, the 19th PHILSME Business Expo & Conference is scheduled to return in May 2027, continuing its mission of empowering growth, fostering innovation, and strengthening the future of Philippine entrepreneurship.

For more information, visit: https://philsme.com

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