DTI, 2GO Travel Partner to Sail OTOP Products Across Philippine Seas

MAKATI CITY, Philippines, 14 April 2026 — 2GO, the country’s premier sea travel operator, formalized a partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to further support the growth of Filipino micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by expanding their reach to wider markets through affordable sea travel for trade and the establishment of OTOP Nooks aboard 2GO Travel passenger vessels.

 

The agreement enables the availability of special discounted sea travel rates for DTI-endorsed MSMEs participating in official trade fairs. With up to 50 kilograms of baggage allowance, entrepreneurs can conveniently transport a variety of products across routes. Complementing these travel benefits is the rollout of OTOP Nooks across all 2GO Travel passenger ships, providing onboard retail spaces dedicated to showcasing and selling products from partner micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) under the OTOP Philippines Program. The initiative creates new retail touchpoints for Filipino-made products while giving travelers access to locally crafted goods during their journeys.

 

DTI Undersecretary Blesila Lantayona emphasized the importance of expanding opportunities for MSMEs, noting that “this initiative strengthens the presence of proudly Filipino products beyond their home regions and enables MSMEs to reach more consumers nationwide, with sea travel supporting their growth and mobility.”

 

2GO will offer special discounted rates for DTI-endorsed MSMEs joining official trade fairs, along with exclusive travel and cargo support to streamline their participation.

 

Francis John Chua, Business Unit Head of 2GO Travel, shared that “this collaboration allows both established and aspiring MSMEs to tap into our sea travel network, and we hope that they take advantage of their 50kg baggage allowance that comes with every 2GO Travel ticket. This actually means that starting and growing your own business has never been easier. Now, you can carry the trade you want to sell with you, bring your products directly to passengers across key routes, and strengthen your visibility while maximizing our onboard retail platform.”

The first OTOP partnership between DTI Region XII and 2GO Travel was launched onboard MV 2GO Masinag. With the signing of this nationwide MOA, the initiative now expands to cover all 2GO Travel passenger vessels, further connecting local entrepreneurs to a broader customer base.

 

For inquiries on MSME-exclusive travel offers, contact tours_groups@2go.com.ph.

Security Bank Joins DTI, Regional Partners to Strengthen Cross-Border Startup Collaboration

Makati City, Philippines — Security Bank Corporation, together with Bank of Ayudhya Public Company Limited (Krungsri), MUFG Bank Ltd., MUFG Innovation Partners Co., Ltd. (MUIP), Krungsri Finnovate Company Limited (KFIN), and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen inbound and outbound startup collaboration and advance innovation across the region.

“At Security Bank, this commitment reflects our BetterBanking promise—to create value, deliver meaningful experiences, and open doors for businesses to thrive,” said Hirofumi Umeno, Director, Executive Vice President and Alliance Segment Head. “Our shared goal is to turn collaboration into real outcomes that strengthen industries and fuel long-term growth across the Asia and globally.”

The partnership brings together each organization’s strengths—Security Bank’s deep ties with Philippine corporates, MUFG’s extensive corporate network in Japan, the Philippines and across the region, Krungsri’s presence in Thailand, experience in regional business‑matching platforms, MUIP and KFIN’s reach across regional and global startup ecosystems, and DTI’s mandate to promote Philippine startup growth and international participation.

“This collaboration advances Startup Pilipinas, the Innovative Startup Act, and the Tatak Pinoy Strategy as we build an innovation‑driven economy that empowers MSMEs and boosts global competitiveness,” said Assistant Secretary Nylah Rizza D. Bautista. “We will support market access, startup exchanges, accelerator programs, and business matching while strengthening our AI and Startup Center as a regional innovation hub.”

Driving cross-border business matching

Under the MOU, the partners will collaborate to promote startups internationally, support exchange programs and trade missions, and participate in DTI-led innovation events. Philippine corporates and startups will also be invited to join Krungsri’s annual Japan-ASEAN Startup Business Matching Fair in Bangkok in June—an established regional platform focused on driving synergy between startups and large corporates.

"Krungsri Bank has been playing an important role on encouraging ASEAN regional expansion. We have launched ‘Krungsri ASEAN LINK’, a business advisory service that facilitates our customer’s expansion into ASEAN markets," said Bunsei Okubo, First Executive Vice President and Head of Japanese Corporate Banking, Bank of Ayudhya PCL. "We will be hosting the Japan-ASEAN Startup Business Matching Fair again for the 4th year. The event will create opportunities for Filipino Startups to connect with leading corporates from over 10 countries."

“Backed by MUFG’s ASEAN network and USD20 billion investment commitment, this collaboration advances innovation and strengthens the Philippines’ role in the regional startup ecosystem. We remain optimistic about the long-term potential of the Philippines and Thailand as we continue connecting both to global capital, talent, and technology,” said Masami Yoshitake, Managing Director, Country Head-Philippines at MUFG Bank.

“This MOU with DTI and our partners marks a key step in our regional strategy, advancing investment readiness, two‑way market expansion, and deep‑tier knowledge exchange to accelerate the growth of Philippine and regional startups,” said Palida Artispong, Acting Managing Director at Krungsri Finnovate.

The collaboration will also help map Philippine startup activity, identify opportunities for partnership with corporates, and support innovation in high-growth sectors. 

“With the Philippines’ young, digital-native population, English as an official language, and strong global connections, this market is well-positioned to contribute significantly to digital transformation in the region. We believe these strengths will enable startups here to scale internationally and create impactful solutions for the future,” said Atsushi Ishihara, Deputy CEO of MUFG Innovation Partners.

“This partnership creates real value by connecting startups with corporates for pilots, partnerships, and investments—helping ideas scale and businesses stay competitive,” John Cary Ong, Executive Vice President and Wholesale Banking Segment Head at Security Bank added. “The MOU provides a practical framework for cross‑border exposure, trade missions, and structured business matching, while upholding good governance and institutional independence.”

Learn more about Security Bank’s BetterBanking promise by visiting www.securitybank.com or following Security Bank on its official social media channels.

Nature Meets Wellness: PH to Showcase Healthy Products at Indusfood 2026

The Philippines will aim to deliver a strong performance in Indusfood 2026, presenting four capable enterprises with healthy, premium-quality products to the Indian market.

With support from the Department of Trade and Industry-Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (DTI-CITEM), the Philippine exhibitors for this edition will showcase dried vegetable leaves, tropical snacks, crackers, and processed fruits. These offerings are produced through responsible farming and processing systems, with global certifications affirming their manufacturers’ compliance with food safety and quality standards. The producers draw from the country’s natural strengths—fertile soil, favorable climate, and established agricultural practices—to supply the global market with distinctly Filipino food products.

This participation is part of DTI-CITEM's efforts to create pathways for Philippine products in India, where demand for healthy and natural food continues to rise. 

This year’s exhibitors will be presented at the India Exposition Mart’s International Hall (Hall 1) under the FOODPhilippines banner, a CITEM-led industry branding initiative that promotes the Philippines as a dependable sourcing destination for food and ingredients. 

Innovative enterprises ready for global market

The lineup of Filipino exhibitors includes Dry Tech Manufacturing Corp., which will highlight ready-to-cook dried taro, moringa, lemongrass, and pandan leaves under its Sheentaro brand. The company uses eco-friendly drying technologies and responsible agricultural practices to produce natural, hygienic, pesticide-free ingredients suited to India’s plant-based market.

Also in the group is Monde M.Y. San Corporation, an accomplished Filipino biscuit and cracker manufacturer known for brands such as Skyflakes, Fita, and M.Y. San Grahams. The company uses advanced baking technology to maintain the quality of its goods and to ensure their production processes are sustainable. With over 90 years of experience, Monde M.Y. San will present its Skyflakes Snack Pack, Garlic Snack Pack, and Onion and Chives Snack Pack.

One Vizcaya Export Corporation will highlight sustainably sourced ube powder, calamansi, saba bananas, and fruit bars. Established in 2020, the company aims to supply high-value products that meet India’s growing interest in healthy fruit-based goods.

See’s International Food Manufacturing Corp., maker of Gold Chips banana chips, will feature snacks produced from freshly harvested Philippine bananas. The company highlights its products for India’s growing demand for premium tropical snacks.

Launched in 2017, Indusfood is one of Asia’s prominent food and beverage trade shows, providing a platform for exporters to connect with global buyers and widen their reach. Indusfood 2026 will run from January 8 to 10, 2026 at the India Exposition Mart in Greater Noida.

In addition to supporting enterprises in overseas trade fairs, DTI-CITEM organizes the International Food Exhibition (IFEX) Philippines, the Philippines’ largest business-to-business and export-oriented trade show for food, beverage, and ingredients. As the longest-running food sourcing event in the Philippines, IFEX Philippines spotlights premium products from across the regions and positions the country as a dependable supplier in the global market. Co-located within IFEX Philippines is the Sustainability Solutions Exchange (SSX) Exhibition and Conference, a platform that showcases innovations, facilitates knowledge exchange, and fosters collaborative solutions that support the country’s development of a circular economy. 

The 19th edition of IFEX Philippines will run from May 21-23, 2026 at the World Trade Center Manila in Pasay City, Philippines.

Register as an IFEXConnect exhibitor: https://citem.ph/p/6d5e50

Register as an IFEXConnect trade buyer: https://citem.ph/p/b426fb

 

Catch FOODPhilippines in the following trade fairs: 

 

· Anuga

· China-ASEAN Expo under PARTNERPhilippines

· China International Import Expo

· FOODEX JAPAN

· Gulfood

· Private Label Middle East

· SEOUL FOOD

· SIAL Paris

 

The Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) is the export promotion arm of the Philippine Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). CITEM advances the country’s image as a premier sourcing destination for quality export products and services.  

CITEM is committed to developing, nurturing, and promoting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), brands, designers, and manufacturers by implementing an integrated approach to export promotion in partnership with other government and private entities

Innovative Filipino Minds Drive Digital Progress During the 51st Philippine Business Conference and Expo

Manila, Philippines — The Byte Forward Hackathon 2025 concluded with an inspiring showcase of innovation and collaboration as young Filipino students competed in the Grand Finals held during the 51st Philippine Business Conference and Expo (PBC&E) at the SMX Convention Center.

Organized by Converge ICT Solutions Inc. and Rev21 Labs, under the auspices of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), the nationwide hackathon brought together  Filipino tech talent from across the country to develop digital solutions that address real-world business challenges. From 200 participants across 5 regional rounds, 15 finalists advanced to the national stage to showcase how Filipino creativity and technology can shape a smarter, more connected future.

“In launching the Hackathon, we wanted to partner with the largest economic force in the country — our SMEs. They drive so much of our economy and we believe that once we connect these businesses to strong digital infrastructure, they’ll have the power to ideate, build, and innovate. Over the last six months, through our partnership with PCCI, we’ve seen this play out. We took real business challenges from SMEs across the country and gave them to students — and the ideas that came back were nothing short of inspiring,” shared Rev 21 CEO Ron Puno.

After intensive rounds of pitching and live demos,  Team TECHMEHOW2DOUGIE from De La Salle University Manila emerged as the Grand Winner for their project  Caya, an AI-powered inventory assistant that helps small business owners make smarter restocking decisions. When an item runs out of stock, Caya automatically evaluates its profitability, negotiates with suppliers and initiates restocking, or recommends reducing or discontinuing purchases -- turning complex business data into clear, actionable insights for entrepreneurs.

“I would really encourage aspiring developers to join hackathons because you learn so much from the experience,” said Christina Sijera, one of the members of the winning team. “There’s no major risk if you don’t win, but there’s so much to gain—opportunities, growth, and learning. Byte Forward stood out for its strong support system, access to tools, and valuable mentoring and networking opportunities.”

“Don’t let fear get in the way," added teammate Brendan Castillo. “Anyone can think of a great idea, but it’s easy to doubt if it’s really doable or achievable in a short time. You’ll never know until you try.”

Second place went to Team  K-MAS from the University of the Philippines – Mindanao, while Team CABUYAO from the University of Cabuyao placed third. Each team presented forward-thinking projects that demonstrated the vast potential of Filipino tech talent to create real impact through technology.

Beyond the competition, the hackathon featured workshops, mentorship sessions, and networking opportunities designed to sharpen participants’ skills and connect them with industry professionals. It also served as a platform for collaboration between students, tech experts, and business leaders to turn innovative ideas into impactful solutions.

“The Byte Forward Hackathon reflects our belief that Filipino innovators have the creativity and drive to transform communities through technology. By supporting programs like this,  we’re helping bridge digital gaps and empowering the next generation to lead in the country’s digital transformation,” said Converge CEO and 51st PBC&E Chairman, Mr. Dennis Anthony Uy.

The event was supported by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, further solidifying the collaborative ecosystem driving digital innovation in the Philippines.

Empowering young developers to build real solutions not only strengthens local businesses but also supports our shared goal of inclusive, technology-driven growth. This kind of collaboration is what truly moves the nation forward,” added Consul Enunina V. Mangio, PCCI President.

The Byte Forward Hackathon is part of Converge SME Solutions’ initiatives to strengthen the country’s tech ecosystem by providing platforms that inspire innovation, encourage collaboration, and develop digital solutions aligned with the government’s digitalization goals.

DTI Business Counselors to use GJobs to help MSMEs Streamline Recruitment and Strengthen Employer Credibility

To address long-standing hiring challenges faced by micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), through its Negosyo Centers, has onboarded its Business Counselors to GJobs—the job hunting and job referral platform powered by PasaJob within the GCash app. The move is part of DTI's broader push to harness technology in upskilling and elevating MSMEs. The platform provides small businesses with a low-cost, accessible way to recruit talent, formalize hiring practices, and establish employer credibility, even without a dedicated HR team or system.

Micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) comprise 99.63% of all registered businesses in the Philippines and account for over 66.97% of total employment, according to 2023 data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). However, a 2025 study by Boston Consulting Group (BCG) and the DTI reports that only 13% of MSMEs plan to hire additional staff, with limited access to qualified talent and operational constraints among the top barriers. Many still rely on informal referrals or walk-ins, despite the rising complexity of digital and compliance requirements.

Business counselors, serving as frontline advisors, play a vital role in helping MSMEs navigate tools like GJobs and align staffing decisions with long-term growth goals. By enabling small enterprises to build more resilient teams, GJobs helps close long-standing productivity gaps and supports the competitiveness of the sector that employs the majority of the Filipino workforce.

“We recognize that hiring remains one of the most persistent pain points for small businesses. We want small business owners to be aware and take advantage of inclusive small business solutions such as GJobs,” said DTI regional operations group assistant secretary Grace Baluyan.

In its recent webinar, titled "Leveraging GJobs for MSME Recruitment and Strengthening Financial Literacy of Negosyo Center Business Counselors," the DTI strongly recommended that MSMEs leverage innovative talent recruitment solutions, such as GJobs, to help streamline hiring, formalize recruitment practices, and improve access to qualified candidates—all without the overhead cost of traditional methods.

GJobs, an in-app feature within the GCash platform, was developed in partnership with PasaJob to help small business employers access a pool of 2.4 million verified users. Designed to support hiring without functioning as a traditional job hunting and job referral platform, GJobs leverages incentive-based referrals through personal networks and operates on a pay-per-hire model—costs are incurred only when a successful hire is made.

This presents a cost-efficient advantage for MSMEs working with lean budgets. Early data show that job hiring timelines have been cut from 42 days to just 29, underscoring their impact on hiring efficiency and employer credibility.

“MSMEs need tools that match their realities. GJobs gives them reach, control, and affordability without requiring large HR investments,” said GCash VP and head of product innovation Leonardo Ferdinand Byron Perez.

By introducing inclusive job-hunting and job referral platforms like GJobs powered by PasaJob, DTI continues to advance efforts that level the playing field for small businesses—empowering MSMEs to thrive in the digital economy without compromising operational sustainability.

For more information, visit www.gcash.com.

CITEM Market Sensing Mission to Taiwan to Strengthen PH SDG Competency

Building a more inclusive and resilient future for the Philippines, the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) is embarking on a strategic market sensing mission to Taiwan. Attending SDG Asia 2025 from September 11-13, 2025 at the Taipei World Trade Center, the CITEM-led delegation will gather crucial insights on the latest business models, innovations, and technologies in food systems, smart cities, and the circular economy. 

This mission aims to position Filipino enterprises as key players in the global sustainability landscape, fostering new partnerships, and identifying export growth opportunities that advance the nation's sustainability agenda. This strategic visit reinforces the Philippines' commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations (UN). All these reflect CITEM's mandate to promote Philippine products and services in the global market, with a special focus on sustainable and innovative sectors. 

Taiwan, as a leading proponent of sustainability, consistently demonstrates its expertise in renewable energy, energy-efficient buildings, and waste management. It has also actively shared its knowledge and technology in disaster preparedness and climate adaptation. Taiwan is actively working toward achieving its net-zero emissions target by 2050 as part of its contribution to curbing global climate change.  

The delegation is composed of 11 enablers and sustainability advocates from local governments, agencies, and companies in green technology. Their advocacies are anchored on key concepts interrelated to sustainable development, such as economic stability, environmental impact, good governance, and societal health. For instance, the Municipality of Buguey in Cagayan spearheads climate-resilient, eco-friendly practices for farmers and fisherfolk toward sustainable product development and food security. For DTI Region I, which covers Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, and Pangasinan, it enhances the region’s competitiveness through global green design and safety standards in product development, logistics efficiency, and responsible consumerism. Another participant, Nutridense Food Manufacturing Corp., focuses on creating products that address nutritional health amidst poverty, calamities, and overall well-being. Meanwhile, the Quezon City Small Business and Cooperatives Development and Promotions Office champions inclusivity of micro and small enterprises and cooperatives through capacity-building, financing, and mentorship programs.

The rest of the delegation are representing the following offices: DTI-CARAGA, DTI-Ilocos Norte, and DTI-Pangasinan. 

The diverse roster follows a comprehensive and multifaceted approach to exploring sustainable solutions and fostering international collaboration. In cooperation with Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) in Taipei, the visiting team will also participate in facility visits during the mission.

The country’s sustainability efforts are guided by the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (CF) 2024-2028, a joint strategic planning framework for partnership between the Philippines and the UN. This CF aligns with the global 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. 

This year’s market sensing mission also serves as a platform to promote next year’s Sustainability Solutions Exchange (SSX) Conference and Exhibition to be held at the Philippine Trade Training Center, Pasay City, Philippines that is concurrent with the 19th edition of IFEX Philippines on May 21-23, 2026 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila in Pasay City, Philippines.

The SSX is one of CITEM’s signature programs that is the country’s first platform promoting sustainable practices, resources, and technology to the world’s essential industries. SSX creates avenues for Philippine MSMEs and other businesses to continue or transition toward a circular economy.

DTI Launches Creative Expo, Targets PH to be Asia's Creative Hub by 2030

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is spearheading the Philippines' bid 

to become Asia's Premier Creative Hub by 2030 with the official launch of the 

Malikhaing Pinoy Creative Expo (MPEx), a five-day national event at SMX Aura, 

Taguig City.

Held in celebration of the Philippine Creative Industries Month (PCIM), the MPEx is the first event to gather all nine creative domains—audiovisual media, visual arts,  digital interactive media, design, performing arts, publishing, traditional cultural expressions, creative services, and cultural sites—and their 73 sectors.

Leading the ceremonial opening, Trade Secretary Cristina A. Roque said that the 

expo emphasizes the vital role of Filipino creativity in driving economic progress. 

 

“Under the clear directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the Department of Trade and Industry is fully committed to harnessing the power of our creative 

industries. The DTI will continue to provide our artists and creators with the necessary infrastructure and support, like this Malikhaing Pinoy Creative Expo, 

until Filipino talent gains the global recognition it truly deserves,” Secretary Roque  said.

The expo features a dynamic and immersive setup, showcasing the nine domains  through dedicated creative pavilions, where visitors can explore exhibits of  paintings, sculptures, and art toys, as well as original works in comics, animation,  and publications.

Another key component of the event is the series of "Malikhaing Pinoy Chats," 

which bring together professionals, creative workers, aspiring creatives, and 

government policymakers for thought-provoking presentations and conversations.

Meanwhile, "Creative Matchmaking for Filipino Games," pitching session is also 

set to provide indie and student game developers an opportunity to present their 

ideas to industry leaders and potential investors, where Dungeon King of Midnight Equinox stood out and earned the Best Game Pitch award.

The event features a wide array of prominent exhibitors and organizations, 

including the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) and the Game 

Developers Association of the Philippines (GDAP) for audiovisual and digital 

interactive media, and the Design Center of the Philippines and Philippine Fashion 

Coalition for design. The Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) is a key exhibitor 

for the performing arts, while the Ayala Museum represents the cultural sites 

domain. 

National Poverty Alleviation Office, DTI, GCash Encourage Grassroots Entrepreneurship through MSME Webinar

The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Poverty Alleviation (OPAPA), the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and over 100 small business founders—working in cooperation with leading mobile finance app GCash—recently concluded Sumakses!, a three-part weekly webinar series. Designed to empower Filipinos to start their own business and take control of their financial future, the series brought together government, industry, and community voices in support of inclusive entrepreneurship.

Streamed on OPAPA’s official Facebook page, Sumakses! features real-life case studies from micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) founders, many of whom began their businesses using limited resources. Each episode is followed by a financial literacy segment designed to equip viewers with practical tools and insights to help entrepreneur sustain their ventures and improve long-term economic resilience.

The series featured over 100 successful small business founders, many of whom have already scaled into small factories from their humble beginnings as home businesses. The success stories enlighten viewers not only on how to jumpstart their ideas but also how they sustained them with small business solutions and wealth-building tools such as GCash for Business.

Behind the series was the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Poverty Alleviation (OPAPA), established by the Office of the President to lead the coordination and strengthening of national poverty reduction efforts. With a mandate to craft and oversee strategic, multi-sectoral programs, OPAPA focuses on uplifting poor and marginalized Filipinos through grassroots empowerment, inclusive economic development, and sustainable livelihood.

OPAPA’s goal is to champion long-term solutions, shifting away from charity schemes but rather toward programs that foster self-reliance and entrepreneurship. Its advocacy centers on equipping Filipinos with the tools, opportunities, and agency to rise out of poverty through meaningful work, financial inclusion, and enterprise.

“Poverty alleviation must begin at the grassroots level,” said OPAPA Secretary Lorenzo “Larry” Gadon. “We believe in equipping Filipinos not just with livelihood but with lasting capability, and we welcome the contributions of MSME founders to this effort.”

The initiative addresses a vital segment of the economy. According to the Department of Trade and Industry, MSMEs account for 99.5% of registered businesses in the Philippines and employ over 63% of the workforce. Yet despite their prevalence, many MSMEs face barriers to digital adoption and financial education, particularly in rural areas and among first-time entrepreneurs.

GCash contributed to the program through a weekly financial literacy segment hosted by Joseph “Chippy” Dimayuga, GCash customer success partnerships manager. In his segment, Dimayuga talks about accessible finance tools such as GLoan, GSave and GInvest, as well as GCash for Business, a suite of digital solutions tailored to MSMEs with minimal capital.

“With a proper business mindset, it can be simple to earn money, but keeping that hard-earned income is where the real challenge begins,” said GCash customer success partnerships manager Joseph Dimayuga. “We want to help aspiring entrepreneurs not just discover ways to make money, but also learn how to manage it wisely, grow it sustainably, and protect it for the long haul. Financial literacy is the foundation that allows small business owners to turn a good idea into lasting success.”

By combining entrepreneurial storytelling with inclusive financial education, Sumakses! offers a practical roadmap for ordinary Filipinos to rise above poverty through sustainable business ownership.

For more information, visit www.gcash.com.

DTI Partners with P&G to Transform Startup Innovations Into Solutions for Large Enterprises

02 July 2025 Manila, Philippines — As Procter & Gamble (P&G) Philippines celebrates its 90th Anniversary, the company is reaffirming its commitment to innovation by expanding its vGROW Program to a broader network of startups across the country. The vGROW Program is P&G's open innovation platform that collaborates with startups to address challenges in the areas of supply chain management, retail execution, and digital commerce.

Building on the success of last year's launch, P&G's 2025 vGROW Program has taken a big step forward by casting a wider search in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). More than 60 startups responded to the April–June 2025 call. The 2025 edition focuses on six challenge areas tied to core business needs in the areas of supply chain, retail and selling, activations, and digital systems.

“At P&G, we believe that innovation is the lifeblood of our company. With the vGROW Program, in partnership with the DTI, we are excited to empower Filipino startups to transform their innovative ideas into value-adding solutions for business,” said Agraj Sharma, President and General Manager of P&G Philippines. “We are excited to explore innovative solutions that will enable P&G and our brands to better serve Filipino consumers, our stakeholders, and the society.”  

Shivangi Jain, Senior Director and P&G Asia Pacific Head of Purchases added, “We look forward to collaborating with innovative Filipino startups to address real business challenges and create opportunities with P&G Philippines, our business partners, and P&G regionally.”

Deeper Startup Integration in 2025

During the event, a select group of startups presented scalable solutions to senior P&G leaders from both the Philippines and the Asia Pacific region. QBO Innovation, the Philippines' top startup support organization, carefully selected these startups based on their potential to address specific business challenges and their readiness for integration into business operations.

“P&G’s vGROW Program isn’t just a platform. It allows startups to bring a new way of thinking to solve real business issues. P&G has led the way in shepherding startups into the corporate arena,” said Rene “Butch” Meily, President of IdeaSpace Foundation and QBO Innovation.

P&G's commitment to innovation reflects broader industry goals, as highlighted by government initiatives.

“This is a manifestation of the Innovative Startup Act at work—enterprise leadership, startup agility, and policy alignment driving an inclusive and resilient economy,” said Engr. Karl Lyndon B. Pacolor, OIC – Assistant Director, DTI-Bureau of Policy Research and Innovation. “We commend P&G for its initiative to open its doors to startup enterprises. This is a significant step towards achieving the policy's goal of linking startup entrepreneurs with meaningful value chains, catalysing expansion and growth and fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the country.”