The Philippine Small and Medium Enterprise Business Network Inc. (PhilSME) officially launched the E-Commerce Expo Philippines (EcomX) on Thursday, strengthening the country's digital business ecosystem by providing opportunities for networking, collaboration, learning, and business growth among stakeholders in the e-commerce industry.

During the launch, RDR Business Solutions President and Founder "Boss RDR" Delos Reyes said the expo comes at a crucial time as e-commerce continues to emerge as a major driver of the Philippine economy.

"I truly believe that e-commerce is the dark horse of the Philippine economy because there are so many talented entrepreneurs whose contributions often go unnoticed, Delos Reyes said.

Delos Reyes shared that the COVID-19 pandemic created a space for e-commerce to grow, driving businesses to shift from traditional operations to digital platforms after being forced to close or limit their physical businesses.

"Some businesses that once employed only five to 10 people now have more than 200 or even 300 employees. One company has grown to nearly 500 employees. Imagine how many jobs these businesses have created after embracing e-commerce," Delos Reyes added.

To Delos Reyes, EcomX is a movement where Filipino entrepreneurs who have built businesses through digital platforms are finally acknowledged, recognized, and celebrated.