VP Sara leads awarding, delivers keynote speech at the 51st PBC&E

Vice President Sara Z. Duterte opened the first day of the 51st Philippine Business Conference and Expo (PBC&E) at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City, held from 20 to 21 October 2025.

The annual expo is the country’s largest gathering of businesses, delegates, and international guests, focusing on economic growth and the digitalization of technology in the 21st century.

In her keynote speech, Duterte emphasized the advancement of digital technology in the Philippines, acknowledging that innovation may seem intimidating but is essential for improving various sectors. She welcomed guests from top United States companies and thanked them for sharing expertise on how the Philippines can utilize digital technology and artificial intelligence (AI) to deliver intuitive and innovative services.

The Vice President reaffirmed that the Office of the Vice President will always advocate for good governance, expressing hope that digitalization can serve as a tool against corruption. Addressing recent Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) controversies involving alleged irregularities, Duterte said that digital technology could enable “borderless, seamless, and transparent transactions,” preventing officials from misusing taxpayers’ money.

She added that she hopes the Philippines will lead Southeast Asia in effectively harnessing AI.

“Nakakapagod na po ang maging huli. Let us strive to make our nation great because the Filipinos deserve better,” Duterte said.

While advocating for technological advancement, Duterte stressed the importance of investing in people first, noting that technology should empower Filipinos by equipping them with the necessary skills to maximize innovation. She urged the government to capitalize on the nation’s human and natural resources to drive sustainable growth.

Beyond employment and innovation discussions, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) recognized top Filipino entrepreneurs and businesses for their contributions to agriculture, tourism, and intellectual property development.

The awards were led by Vice President Sara Duterte, 51st PBC&E Chairman Dennis Anthony Uy, and PCCI Consul and President Enunina V. Mangio.

List of awardees:

Excellence in Ecology and Economy Awards
Environmental Innovation Award

• Small Enterprise Category: Perr-res Fruit Food Products Processing

• Large Enterprise Category: Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation, Monde Nissin Corporation

Alfredo M. Yap (AMY) Intellectual Property Awards

• Grand Winner – Collegiate Category: “Eco Pure Cleaning Solutions” by Lea Mae P. Lizardo, Reyden R. Guevarra, Grace L. Ubalde, and John Glenn S. Mesa

• Grand Winner – Professional Category: “Rainfold with 3-stage Zeramic Filter for Rainwater Harvesting Solutions for Remote and Water-Stressed Communities” by Eleanor Olegario

Injap Sia Outstanding Young Entrepreneur Awards

• Lopemae Hana Bautista, Perr-res Fruit Food Products Processing and L&D Citrus Farm

• Jack Vince Bucol, AR-YA Aramid Inang Handicrafts Trading

• Atty. Christopher Ryan Yan, CEO, Hausland Development Corporation

Most Outstanding Local Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) Tourism Advocacy Award – National Winners:

• NCR: Engr. Jundio Salvador, PCCI-New Marikina

• South Luzon: Ms. Antonia G. Badong, Camarines Sur Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc.

• Visayas: Engr. Fulbert C. Woo, PCCI-Iloilo

• Mindanao: Ms. Reggie D. Punongbayan, Chamber of Commerce and Industry Foundation of Iligan Inc.