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.

Sky Ranch Tagaytay is first outdoor amusement park to receive Safety Seal

Tourists and visitors going to Sky Ranch Tagaytay can now visit and enjoy its many activities without worry as the local government of Tagaytay City recently awarded Sky Ranch Tagaytay with the Safety Seal— it’s the first amusement and recreational outdoor venue in Tagaytay City to be given such honor.

The Safety Seal tags establishments that strictly comply with the health protocols that are in line with the Inter-Agency Task Force’s (IATF) guidelines, such as proper wearing of face masks and shields, good ventilation and disinfection, and using the Trace Together contract tracing system. Having this emblem also allows the establishment to operate at an additional 10 percentage points beyond the prescribed venue operational capacity.

For an admission fee of only P50, visitors ages 18 to 65 years old now have a place to hang out or experience al fresco dining with scenic views of the Taal Volcano while filling their tummies with a wide array of yummy eats at Sky Ranch Tagaytay’s restaurants and kiosks.

Even paw parents and their pets can join in on the fun! Because also now open is the Royal Canin Paw Park, which is well-equipped with exciting and safe obstacles that are compliant with the standards of the Philippine Canine Club, Inc. (PCCI). Aside from the obstacles, the park also features several Royal Canin dog houses where guests can take Instagram-worth photos with their doggos, and a covered seating area where they can simply relax after a fun-filled day.

Visit Sky Ranch Tagaytay now and have a fun-filled day with family and friends. Don’t forget to wear face masks, face shields and always practice social distancing while inside.

For more information and updates on the latest events and promos, follow Sky Ranch
Tagaytay on Facebook and @skyranchphl on Instagram.

Contact tracing apps take the spotlight at DTI's Pitch Party

Curated contact tracing applications will take center stage in an online Pitch Party streaming on September 25, 2020 at 2:00 in the afternoon via Zoom and FB Live. 

This online event is a joint endeavor of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), StartupIslandPH, The Company, LGU Dumaguete, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI)-Visayas, the various Chambers in Region 7 and the Rotary.

DTI R7 Assistant Regional Director Maria Elena Arbon said that this webinar is the second of 3 online events under DTI's Ready to Recover (R2R) banner.

The online Pitch Party, Arbon enthused, gathers presenters of contact tracing applications to deliver a short and concise business pitch to describe the company and the application in a way that can be easily understood by the general public, as well as capture the attention of the business community.

Contact tracing apps such as WeScan, QRCity, Clear Pass, CoScan, Radar, KeepSafe, OpenGov, TapTrace, TMDC, ZTrace, Safe Pass, among others, will be pitched in DTI's chat show this coming Friday.

According to the DTI director, this initiative also spurs the growth of startups and supports the development of the startup ecosystem in Central Visayas.

Arbon explained that the main goal of this event is to inform businesses and educate the public on the technology options currently available.

"DTI is again encouraging businesses to adopt more effective and safer tech solutions for health monitoring to replace pen and paper," She added.

Arbon pointed out that community involvement is critical to the program's success and hopes that the webinar will spark a business sector led movement for the adoption of smarter and better contact tracing methods.

For those interested to participate, please register here: http://bit.ly/PPRgstr Get a reminder here: https://www.facebook.com/DTI.Region7/posts/3110596892383164

The public may also watch the event at DTI Region 7's Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/DTI.Region7/ or at the following partner Facebook pages:

Department of Science and Technology Region 7 FB page: https://www.facebook.com/DOST.Region7/

Department of Information and Communications Technology Region 7 FB page: https://www.facebook.com/DICTgovph/

For updates, like and follow us on Facebook: @DTI.Region7 or DTI Region 7 Central Visayas.

PH's First Integrated Permit Application System Debuts in Valenzuela

Starting November 13, an integrated permit application system called the 3S Plus Valenzuela City Online Services will provide a single platform for the application of permits and request for documents. This is the first and the fastest of its kind in the country, which spares applicants from the cost and time required of personal applications at the city hall.

With the City’s commitment to be in full compliance to the Ease of Doing Business (EODB) Law, the highlight of the system is the “Paspas Permit”, the 10-second business permit application system. It allows the issuance of a provisionary business permits within ten seconds after the payment confirmation. Prior to this project, the issuance of business permits at the City Hall takes about 15 to 30 minutes.

The introduction of the ‘Paspas Permit’ system will accelerate Valenzuela’s adoption of digital technology to streamline services for more than 18,000 businesses in the city. According to Mayor REX Gatchalian, “the new platform demonstrates the local government’s commitment to make services more efficient and innovative, which in turn can attract more investors and spur further development. Entrepreneurs are indispensable to our country’s growth and so we are empowering them through improved systems of service delivery.”

“At this point, the adoption of digital technology has become essential to fostering growth. The launch of 3S Plus Valenzuela City Online Services shows how we are leveraging on the innovative use of new technologies for better, faster services to our constituents,” he added.

City of Valenzuela’s efforts uphold E-Governance have earned accolades from numerous reputable institutions. It is a Hall-of-Famer to the Most Business Friendly Highly Urbanized City award of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), a distinction that it held in 2012, 2014, 2015, and again, in 2019 after a mandatory three-year hiatus from the Search.

Using the 3S Plus Valenzuela City Online Services, permit applicants can apply for the following documents and services:

• Renewal or Application of New Business Permits
• Building and Construction Permit application
• Real Property Tax (RPT) payments
• Requests for Certified True Copy of Tax Declaration, Tax Mapping Certificate, Certificate of Non-Improvement and Appraisal of Real Property
• Requests for Certified True Copy of Birth, Death, and Marriage Certificate, and Court Decision

Actual business permit and documents can be delivered within three to five working days through Wide Wide World Express (formerly DHL Philippines) or Grab Express.

Payments, on the other hand, can be processed via Visa, Mastercard, debit cards, Bancnet or PayMaya.

Documentary requirements submitted through the platform are reviewed realtime between 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Mondays to Fridays. Those who were applied beyond office hours shall be processed promptly on the next morning.
Provisionary Building and Construction permits shall also be obtained through the system within 10 second upon confirmation of payment. A provisionary permit shall be sent to the applicant’s email and they can commence construction. However, the applicant must submit the original documents to the Office of the Building Official (OBO) within 15 days, so they can get their actual permit. Failing to do so will revoke their provisionary permit.

“Simpler and faster processes reflect good governance and this is what we want to achieve through our 3S Plus Valenzuela City Online Services. This platform is a one-stop shop for permits and documents needed by residents, investors, and entrepreneurs who want to do business in our city,” Gatchalian concluded.

To register an account at the 3S Plus Valenzuela City Online Services and start applying for permits and documents, visit www.valenzuela.gov.ph.

PH Merchandise Exports up in the Third Quarter – DTI

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) assessed that Philippine merchandise exports rose 0.3% year-on-year (yoy) in the third quarter of 2018, a positive turnaround following its 1.3% yoy decline in the second quarter and 5.5% yoy contraction in the first quarter of the year.

PH’s third-quarter merchandise export performance was largely driven by positive yoy growth in the country’s exports of manufactured goods—led by electronics—with increased exports to the United States (US), China, Hong Kong, and Singapore. In the third quarter, merchandise exports were up in July (+0.3% yoy) and also in August (+3.4% yoy) that combined outweighed its September’s fall (-2.6% yoy), which was partly induced by weakening of global manufacturing activity amid escalating trade tensions between US and China.

“The country’s merchandise export performance has been improving on a quarterly basis since the start of 2018. Its growth turned positive in the third quarter after registering negative growth in the first two quarters of the year,” said DTI Secretary Ramon Lopez.

Sec. Lopez added: “The PH government has long-term plans and roadmaps to help expand the country’s manufacturing and production base, and promote the diversification of merchandise exports. Through these policy initiatives and programs, merchandise exports will grow further and in turn will narrow the trade-in-goods deficit. We need to expand our manufacturing base to meet as well the growing domestic demand for both consumption goods and intermediate goods.  In the short-term, we are trying to address supply chain issues and maximizing whatever limited budget given to promote our exportables in foreign markets through trade fairs and expos like the recently held China International Import Exposition (CIIE) that contribute to increasing our export sales abroad.”

DTI Chief Promotes ASEAN Economic Integration: Joins ASEAN Ministers in Signing E-Commerce Agreement, in Enhancing Agreements on Services Trade and Investment

SINGAPORE — Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon Lopez joined other ASEAN Economic Ministers (AEM) at the Preparatory AEM Meeting and the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) Council during 11-12 November in Singapore.

In this event, the ministers signed the ASEAN E-Commerce Agreement; announced the conclusion of the negotiations for the ASEAN Trade in Services Agreement (ATISA); and finalised the Fourth Protocol to Amend the ASEAN Comprehensive Investment Agreement (ACIA).

Secretary Lopez noted two major benefits from the e-commerce agreement: “It has elements that provide protection and safeguards to consumers to build trust and confidence in e-commerce. Likewise, it facilitates more MSME access to the ASEAN market.”

Meanwhile, ATISA aims to deepen services sectors in ASEAN, while ACIA will help maintain the attractiveness of the region as an investment destination.

“ASEAN is on the drawing board to ‘future-proof’ the regional economy,” said DTI Secretary Lopez.

Among the other topics that were discussed include Global Value Chains (GVC), Innovation, Digital Economy, and 4th Industrial Revolution (4IR), among many others.

“A priority in our engagement in the AEC is to pursue the agenda on Inclusive Globalization. We can use our international and regional engagements as a tool to alleviate poverty and sustain our economic growth and development,” explained Sec. Lopez.

He added that ASEAN can play an important role in preserving a rules-based global trading order and provide the necessary boost to the world economy, amid the increasing threat of escalating trade tensions and continuing global uncertainties.

DTI CHIEF OPENS PH NATIONAL PAVILION IN CHINA EXPO

SHANGHAI – Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon Lopez opened the Philippine (PH) National Pavilion at the China International Import Exposition (CIIE) on 6 November. This aims to improve the market access of PH products into China. CIIE runs from 5 to 10 November and features 3,000 exhibitors from 130 countries.

“The Philippines appreciates the Chinese government’s thrust to deepen its globalization commitment.  CIIE is China’s way of conveying to the world that it is ready to open more its market and encourage more exporters to China,” said the DTI Secretary, Sec. Lopez added: “It sends a strong signal to the world that China would also like to help balance trade with its trading partners as China believes in promoting globalization that's is more inclusive, to achieve the goal of having shared prosperity with other countries.”

The 136-square meter PH national pavilion, themed “Partner Philippines: Building Value Together,” showcases the country’s initiatives in trade, investment, and tourism. It features 10 partner government agencies and companies as well as 11 universities. These universities are promoting their undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as English as a Second Language (ESL).

Aside from the national pavilion, there are 36 booths in the Enterprise Zone featuring Filipino exhibitors: 28 for food, five for consumer goods (apparel, accessories and consumer goods, electronics, automobile, and information technology), and three for services (tourism and service outsourcing).

Sec. Lopez cited the close trade relations between PH and China. China is PH’s largest import partner at US$ 17.5 billion in 2017 and fourth-largest export market at US$ 8 billion in the same year.

Also present at the opening ceremonies were PH Ambassador to China Jose Santiago Sta. Romana, Ministry of Commerce of the People's Republic of China (MOFCOM) Trade Director General for Asian Affairs Peng Gang,  Former Commercial Counselor of China to the Philippines and MOFCOM Director General for Foreign Trade Development Bureau Wu Zhengping, Special Envoy to China Carlos Chan, DTI Undersecretary Nora Terrado, and DTI-CITEM Executive Director Pauline Juan.

The Philippine participation to the CIIE is spearheaded by the DTI, in cooperation with the following government and private sector partners: Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Agriculture (DA), Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Department of Tourism (DOT), the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), Philippine Airlines, Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Anvil business club, Philippine Franchise Association and the Integrated Development Studies Institute.

PCCI Cares: Run For A Cause 2018

The Philippine Chamber of Commerce will have its 3rd PCCI Cares Run For A Cause on May 13, 2018, at Mckinley West, Taguig. On its 3rd year, inflatables as fun obstacles will be incorporated in the run.

Join us on and let’s have fun and get a lot of freebies and raffle prizes as we help raise funds for the CSR of Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry

PCCI Cares Run for a Cause 2018

May 13, 2018
McKinley West, Taguig City
5K|10K|15K

Registration Fees:
5
K – P650
10K – P750
15K – P850


- Inclusive of Race Singlet, Finisher Medal, Race Bib, Lootbags, and Raffle Stub

Registration Venues:
1. Online – Click Here
2. In-store:
– Chris Sports (March 25 – May 1) in Up town, Glorietta, SM MOA, SM Megamall, SM North Edsa
– PCCI office – 3rd floor Commerce and Industry Plaza Campus Ave, Mckinley Hill Taguig

Race Singlet

Race Medals

Race Bib