CITY OF SAN FERNANDO – As part of its continuing commitment to helping women-led micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) grow and succeed in the digital economy, the Department of Trade and Industry Region 3 brought together more than a hundred women entrepreneurs from across Central Luzon for the 2026 Women Entrepreneurs Summit held at the SACOP center here on July 7.
Themed “Empowering Women Through AI, Digitalization, and Logistics Innovation,” the summit equipped participants with practical knowledge on digitalization, artificial intelligence, logistics innovation, and business financing. Through learning sessions, networking activities, a panel discussion, and a mini trade fair, women entrepreneurs gained valuable insights and opportunities to improve their businesses and become more competitive and resilient.
“At DTI, we remain committed to helping our women-led MSMEs become more competitive and future ready by providing programs, training, mentoring, and other opportunities that support growth in an increasingly digital economy,” said DTI Region 3 director Edna D. Dizon in welcoming the participants, noting the agency’s commitment to helping MSMEs become more competitive and future ready.
She also recognized the invaluable contribution of women entrepreneurs to local and national development: “To all our women entrepreneurs, never underestimate the impact of what you do. Every product you create, every service you provide, and every job you generate contributes to the growth of our communities and our nation’s economy.”
In her keynote message, DTI Undersecretary Blesila A. Lantayona underscored the government’s commitment to advancing women’s economic empowerment, emphasizing that RA 9710 (Magna Carta of Women), institutionalizes support for women while recognizing their vital role in the country’s economic and social development.
“When we invest in women, we are investing in the growth and future of our nation. We live in a time when technology is rapidly changing the way we do business, the way we communicate and access opportunities. As societies become more digital, we must ensure that women are not left behind. We must help women harness the benefits of emerging technologies such as AI, while equipping them with the knowledge and skills to navigate its challenges and risks,” said Lantayona.
The summit featured a series of expert-led learning sessions designed to strengthen the digital capabilities and competitiveness of MSMEs.
Abe Alombro of PLDT and Smart Communications opened the learning sessions by discussing digitalization for business growth and the practical applications of artificial intelligence for MSMEs. He introduced participants to digital transformation strategies, digital tools that improve productivity and business operations, techniques for building a strong online presence, and the use of AI for marketing and customer engagement. He also guided participants through a demonstration of AI tools for creating digital content and promotional materials for online platforms while emphasizing cybersecurity awareness, online safety, and strategies for protecting business and customer data.
Recognizing the importance of efficient business operations, Dawn Cabreros and Angelica Serrano of Grab North Luzon shared innovative logistics and supply chain solutions for MSMEs. Their presentation covered efficient delivery and fulfillment systems, inventory management, and technology-driven logistics innovations that enable enterprises to improve customer service and operational efficiency.
Joel Sanchez of Small Business Corp. and Joan Sarmiento of City Savings Bank, presented various financing opportunities available to MSMEs. The session highlighted financing programs, digitalization and business expansion loans, and other financial support services that enable entrepreneurs to invest in technology, expand their operations, and sustain business growth.
One of the highlights of the summit was the panel discussion featuring two accomplished women entrepreneurs, Aileen Uy-Chan, owner and president of 1st Megasaver, and Coleen Beatriz Granda, entrepreneur and president of Young Entrepreneurs Program Pampanga. The panelists shared their entrepreneurial journeys, business strategies, best practices, and valuable lessons learned in building successful enterprises.
Participants actively engaged with the speakers during the open forum, raising questions on business management, employee handling, and enterprise sustainability. The panelists generously shared practical experiences and insights, inspiring fellow women entrepreneurs to embrace innovation and pursue continuous growth.
Complementing the learning sessions was a mini trade fair showcasing products from women-led enterprises representing the seven provinces of Central Luzon.
The program concluded with closing remarks from Cristina Tuzon, regional director of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, who encouraged participants to maximize the knowledge, partnerships, and opportunities gained during the summit to further strengthen their enterprises. DTI-3
