ILOILO — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region VI is rolling into the city today, August 7, 2026, with its Western Visayas BizConEx: Business Conference on Wheels. The mobile summit at Sam’s 21 Hotel aims to bring government support directly to local entrepreneurs.
A Mobile Summit for Regional Growth
The BizConEx roadshow travels across Western Visayas, stopping in key cities to connect micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with policymakers, industry leaders, and financiers. Each leg is designed to make business growth tools accessible without requiring entrepreneurs to travel to a single capital. Iloilo’s stop is a pivotal one, given the city’s status as the region’s economic hub.
The conference brings a full suite of services under one roof. Participants can explore financing options, learn about digital transformation, and understand how to qualify for government procurement. The setup removes barriers that often keep small business owners from accessing these resources.
Key Leaders Rally Behind MSMEs
Mayor Raisa S. Treñas‑Chu delivered the keynote address, reaffirming the city government’s commitment to creating a business‑friendly environment. She highlighted Iloilo’s streamlined permitting processes and infrastructure investments that support enterprises of all sizes. Her presence signaled the local government’s active partnership with the trade department.
Atty. Jobert A. Peñaflorida, Co‑Chairperson of the Regional Development Council VI and Area Vice President of PCCI Visayas, stressed the importance of public‑private collaboration. He noted that chambers of commerce stand ready to mentor emerging businesses and help them scale beyond local markets. Francis Gerona, representing PCCI Region 6 Governor Engr. Fulbert C. Woo, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the value of networking across provinces.
From Policy to Practice
Beyond the speeches, the event offers practical workshops and one‑on‑one consultations. Business counselors from DTI guide attendees on product development, packaging, and market expansion. Representatives from financing institutions explain loan programs tailored for micro‑enterprises, helping owners understand how to access capital.
The roadshow format ensures that the conversation does not end when the conference does. Participants leave with concrete action plans and contacts to continue their growth journey. DTI’s strategy is to turn inspiration into immediate, actionable steps for every attendee.
Strengthening Western Visayas’ Economy
BizConEx 2026 is a cornerstone of the region’s effort to build a resilient MSME sector. By bringing government, business chambers, and entrepreneurs into one room, the conference fosters an ecosystem where ideas turn into sustainable enterprises. As Iloilo hosts today’s leg, the ripple effects are expected to strengthen the entire Western Visayas economy.
