34th Visayas Area Business Conference (VABC)

34th Visayas Area Business Conference (VABC) serves as a platform for business leaders and stakeholders in the Visayas region to convene and discuss strategies for economic growth and development.

Conference Starts in:

Why Attend 34th Visayas Area Business Conference (VABC)?

The 34th Visayas Area Business Conference offers a prime opportunity to elevate your business acumen by gaining valuable insights shared by seasoned professionals and thought leaders. Engage in stimulating discussions and presentations covering the latest trends, challenges, and innovative solutions shaping various industries. This conference is designed to equip attendees with actionable knowledge that can be directly applied to foster growth and navigate the evolving business environment within the Visayas.

Beyond knowledge acquisition, the VABC provides an invaluable platform to connect with industry leaders, potential partners, and fellow entrepreneurs from across the region. Forge meaningful relationships through networking sessions and collaborative activities, opening doors to new opportunities and collaborations. A key focus of this year’s conference is exploring pathways for digital transformation, empowering businesses in the Visayas to leverage technology for enhanced efficiency, broader reach, and sustainable growth in the digital age.

Quality Time with Experts

Engage in ‘Quality Time with Experts’ at the 34th Visayas Area Business Conference, an exclusive opportunity to connect directly with seasoned professionals and thought leaders across various industries. These dedicated sessions offer a more intimate setting for attendees to pose specific questions, gain personalized insights, and delve deeper into topics of particular interest. Whether you’re seeking strategic advice, exploring potential collaborations, or simply aiming to learn from the best, this segment provides unparalleled access to expertise that can significantly impact your business trajectory within the Visayas region.

Participating the conference allows for more than just passive listening; it fosters meaningful dialogue and the exchange of practical knowledge. Benefit from the wisdom and experience of those who have navigated the complexities of the business world, gaining valuable perspectives that might not emerge in larger, more formal presentations. This focused interaction is designed to be a catalyst for growth, offering tailored guidance and fostering connections that extend beyond the conference itself, ultimately enriching your understanding and network within the Visayan business community.

Who Should Attend?

The 34th Visayas Area Business Conference is a must-attend event for business owners and entrepreneurs across all sectors within the Visayas. Whether you are leading a startup, managing a growing SME, or heading a large corporation, this conference offers invaluable opportunities to gain strategic insights, discover innovative solutions, and forge crucial connections that can propel your business forward. It’s a prime platform to understand the regional economic landscape, identify potential partnerships, and learn best practices from fellow business leaders navigating the unique opportunities and challenges of the Visayas.

Furthermore, the VABC is highly relevant for executives, managers, government officials, and investors who are invested in the progress and prosperity of the Visayas region. Executives and managers can leverage the conference to stay abreast of industry trends and network with peers. Government officials involved in economic development will find it a valuable forum for dialogue and collaboration with the business community. Investors can identify promising ventures and gain a deeper understanding of the investment climate within the Visayas, making it a vital gathering for anyone looking to contribute to or benefit from the region’s economic dynamism.

Register now for the 34th VABC! Early bird rate is ₱4,500 until June 30, 2025. Join us at Tacloban City & Palo, Leyte on 23 to 25 of July and accelerate business growth!

Conference Schedule

Eventry full schedule of keynotes, sessions & workshops

1:00PMMAIN HALL

Opening Ceremonies

  • Parade of PCCI Officers
    • PCCI Visayas Local Chamber Presidents
    • PCCI Visayas Regional Governors
    • Host Chamber Officers and BOD
    • PCCI AVP for Visayas
    • PCCI National Officers
  • Pintados Festival Performance
1:30PMMAIN HALL
Melanie Ng
Melanie Ng

AVP, PCCI Visayas

Call To Order

Melanie Ng Co-Chairperson, 34th VABC
Area Vice President, PCCI Visayas
1:35PMMAIN HALL
Eugene A. Tan
Eugene A. Tan

President, PCCI Tacloban

Welcome Remarks

Eugene A. Tan President, PCCI Tacloban-Leyte
34th VABC Host Chamber
1:40PMMAIN HALL
Stephanie Diane Chu
Stephanie Diane Chu

Co-Chairperson

Welcome Message

Stephanie Diane "Twinkle" Chu Co-Chairperson, 34th VABC
Regional Governor, PCCI Eastern Visayas
1:45PMMAIN HALL
Hon. Remedios Petilla
Hon. Remedios Petilla

Mayor, Municipality of Palo

Message of Support

Hon. Remedios "Matin" Petilla
Mayor, Municipality of Palo
1:50PMMAIN HALL
Melanie Ng
Melanie Ng

Chairperson, 34th VABC

Opening Message

Melanie Ng Chairperson, 34th VABC
Area Vice President, PCCI Visayas
1:54PMMAIN HALL
Enunina V. Mangio
Enunina V. Mangio

PCCI President

Message from the PCCI President

Consul Enunina V. Mangio President, PCCI
1:57PMMAIN HALL
Jonathan Calvara
Jonathan Calvara

Director, 34th VABC

Conference Overview

Jonathan Calvara Director, 34th VABC
2:00PMMAIN HALL
Atty. J. Peñaflorida
Atty. J. Peñaflorida

PCCI Regional Governor

Introduction of Keynote Speaker

Atty. Joebert Peñaflorida PCCI Western Visayas Regional Governor
2:15PMMAIN HALL
Hon. Benigno Aquino IV
Hon. Benigno Aquino IV

Senator of the Philippines

Keynote Speech Visayas Rising: Transforming Vision into Business Impact for a Future-Ready Region

Hon. Paolo Benigno "Bam" Aquino IV
Senator of the Republic of the Philippines
2:30PMMAIN HALL
Atty. Albert M. Uy
Atty. Albert M. Uy

PCCI Regional Governor

Introduction of Guest Speaker

Atty. Albert M. Uy PCCI Western Visayas Regional Governor
2:45PMMAIN HALL
Dennis Anthony H. Uy
Dennis Anthony H. Uy

CEO, Converge ICT

Guest Speaker: The Future is Now – Are Visayas Businesses Ready?

Dennis Anthony H. Uy CEO, Converge ICT
Chairman, 51st Philippine Business Conference and Expo (PBC&E)
3:00PMMAIN HALL
Ian Denver Sanchez
Ian Denver Sanchez

Co-founder, Flow21 Sys

Digital Readiness Workshop: How Digitally Ready Is Your Business?

Ian Denver Sanchez Co-founder, Flow21 Systems
4:00PMMAIN HALL
Atty. Jocelle Sigue
Atty. Jocelle Sigue

Fmr. Usec of DICT

Session 1: Defining Digitalization

Plenary Session 1: Defining Digitalization for Visayas Businesses   SESSION CHAIR: 
  • Atty. Jocelle Batapa-Sigue Member, Digital Innovation Board, Innovation and Entrepreneurship Alliance for Digital Development
4:00PMMAIN HALL
Alwyn Rosel
Alwyn Rosel

Exe. Dir., OBO Innovation

Session 1: Defining Digitalization

Plenary Session 1: Defining Digitalization for Visayas Businesses
  • PANELIST 1: Alwyn Rosel, Executve Director, QBO Innovation
4:00PMMAIN HALL
Charmaine Valmonte
Charmaine Valmonte

CISO, Aboitiz Equity Ven.

Session 1: Defining Digitalization

Plenary Session 1: Defining Digitalization for Visayas Businesses
  • PANELIST 2: Charmaine Valmonte, Chief Information Security Officer, Aboitiz Equity Ventures
4:00PMMAIN HALL
Martha Sazon
Martha Sazon

CEO, Mynt

Session 1: Defining Digitalization

Plenary Session 1: Defining Digitalization for Visayas Businesses
  • PANELIST 3: Martha Sazon, CEO, Mynt (GCASH)
9:00AMMAIN HALL
Stephanie Diane Chu
Stephanie Diane Chu

Regional Governor, PCCI

Key Takeaways from Day 1

Stephanie Diane "Twinkle" Chu
Regional Governor, PCCI Eastern Visayas
9:15AMMAIN HALL
Bryan L. Ang
Bryan L. Ang

VP Trade Facilitation, PCCI

Welcome Message

Bryan L. Ang VP for Trade Facilitation, PCCI
9:30AMMAIN HALL
Renato Solidum Jr.
Renato Solidum Jr.

Secretary, DOST

Plenary Session 2: Reimagining Future-Ready Cities in the Visayas

Panelist 1:
  • Renato Solidum Jr. Secretary, Department of Science and Technology
10:00AMMAIN HALL
David Leechiu
David Leechiu

CEO and Co-Founder

Plenary Session 2: Reimagining Future-Ready Cities in the Visayas

Panelist 2: David Leechiu CEO, Leechiu Property Consultants
10:00AMMAIN HALL
Felino A. Palafox, Jr.
Felino A. Palafox, Jr.

Founder, Palafox Associates

Plenary Session 2: Reimagining Future-Ready Cities in the Visayas

Panelist 3: Arch. Felino “Jun” A. Palafox, Jr. Founder, Palafox Associates
10:00AMMAIN HALL
Benedicta Du-Baladad
Benedicta Du-Baladad

Director, PCCI

Plenary Session 2: Reimagining Future-Ready Cities in the Visayas

Panelist 4: Atty. Benedicta Du-Baladad Director of the Taxation & Legislation Committee, PCCI
9:30AMMAIN HALL
RJ Ledesma
RJ Ledesma

Co-fdr, Mercato Centrale Ph.

Plenary Session 2: Reimagining Future-Ready Cities in the Visayas

SESSION MODERATOR: RJ Ledesma Co-founder, Mercato Centrale Philippines
10:30AMMAIN HALL
Walter Garcia
Walter Garcia

President, DevTac

Breakout Sessions 1: Digital Transformation Labs

Empowering Enterprises through Digital Business Solutions Walter Garcia, President, DevTac
10:30AMAnnex A
Carlo Espejo
Carlo Espejo

Senior Manager, AWS Phils.

Breakout Sessions 1: Digital Transformation Labs

Building Smarter Businesses Through the Cloud Carlo Espejo, Senior Engagement Manager, Amazon Web Services Philippines
10:30AMANNEX B
Ralph Regalado
Ralph Regalado

Chief Scientist, Kollab

Breakout Sessions 1: Digital Transformation Labs

Harnessing AI for Competitive Advantage Ralph Regalado, Chief Scientist & Head of AI, Kollab
1:00PMMAIN HALL
Melvin Esteban
Melvin Esteban

CEO, WeLead

Plenary Session 3: Catalyzing a Future-Ready Economy through Digital Policy, Trade, and Inclusion

SESSION MODERATOR: Melvin Esteban CEO, WeLead Financial Advisory
1:30PMMAIN HALL
George Barcelon
George Barcelon

Chairman, PCCI

Plenary Session 3: Catalyzing a Future-Ready Economy through Digital Policy, Trade, and Inclusion

Panelist 1: George Barcelon Chairman, PCCI
1:30PMMAIN HALL
Eduardo V. Francisco
Eduardo V. Francisco

President, BDO Capital

Plenary Session 3: Catalyzing a Future-Ready Economy through Digital Policy, Trade, and Inclusion

Panelist 2: Eduardo V. Francisco President, BDO Capital & Investment Corporation
1:30PMMAIN HALL
Atty. Du-Baladad
Atty. Du-Baladad

Director, PCCI

Plenary Session 3: Catalyzing a Future-Ready Economy through Digital Policy, Trade, and Inclusion

Panelist 3: Atty. Benedicta Du-Baladad Director of the Taxation & Legislation Committee, PCCI
2:00PMMAIN HALL
Nel Laygo
Nel Laygo

CEO, Peddlr

Breakout Sessions 2: Industry Roundtables

Digitally Powered Commerce Nel Laygo, CEO, Peddlr
2:00PMMAIN HALL
Joemar Taganna
Joemar Taganna

CEO, Paytaca

Breakout Sessions 2: Industry Roundtables

Digitally Powered Commerce Joemar Taganna, CEO, Paytaca
2:00PMANNEX A
Erika Dell Sancho
Erika Dell Sancho

CEO, Mata Technologies

Breakout Sessions 2: Industry Roundtables

Tourism 4.0 & Experience Tech Erika Dell Sancho, CEO, Mata Technologies
2:00PMANNEX A
Angelica Rose Ranile
Angelica Rose Ranile

Mktg. Specialist, Cebu Pacific

Breakout Sessions 2: Industry Roundtables

Tourism 4.0 & Experience Tech Angelica Rose Ranile, Marketing Specialist, Cebu Pacific Air
2:00PMANNEX B
JT Solis
JT Solis

CEO, Mayani

Breakout Sessions 2: Industry Roundtables

Agri-Tech & Food Value Chains JT Solis, CEO, Mayani
2:00PMANNEX B
Marini Fernandez
Marini Fernandez

CEO, Farmtri

Breakout Sessions 2: Industry Roundtables

Agri-Tech & Food Value Chains Marini Fernandez, CEO, Farmtri
3:00PMMAIN HALL
Ma. Alegria Limjoco
Ma. Alegria Limjoco

VP Regional Affairs, PCCI

Message from PCCI

Ma. Alegria “Bing” Sibal-Limjoco, VP for Regional Affairs and Membership, PCCI
3:30PMMAIN HALL
Mark L. Yu (TBC)
Mark L. Yu (TBC)

President, Seaoil Philippines

Closing Keynote: The Digital Road Ahead: Turning Insights into Action

Mark L. Yu (TBC) President of Retail and CFO, Seaoil Philippines, Inc.
4:00PMMAIN HALL
TBA
TBA

Closing Ceremonies

  • Special Presentation: 51st Philippine Business Conference and Expo (PBC&E)
  • Presentation and Adoption of the 34th VABC Resolutions
  • Turnover of VABC
JULY 23, 2025 | 6:00 am - 12:00 nnSan Juanico Park, Golf and Country Club & Hotel

VABC Golf Tournament

Kick off the conference with friendly competition and networking on the green! The VABC Golf Tournament offers a relaxed yet engaging setting for delegates to build connections with fellow business leaders and industry champions. SEPARATE REGISTRATION FEES APPLY.
JULY 23, 2025 | 5:00 pm - 9:00 pmLeyte Convention Center Complex Annex A

Commernce Exchange

Grow your network, strike new deals, and discover potential partners at the Commerce Exchange. This B2B matching event is designed to connect businesses across the Visayas with strategic buyers, suppliers, and collaborators.
JULY 24, 2025 | 10:30 am - JULY 25, 2025 | 12:00 nnLeyte Convention Center Complex Annex B

Byte Forward Hackathon

A hackathon where real-world meets innovation—businesses share their challenges, and students race against time to develop creative solutions in just 24 hours. Build bold. Build Filipino Forward.
JULY 24, 2025 | 9:30 am - 12:00 nnLeyte Convention Center Complex Annex A

Visayas Chamber Development Workshop

Designed for local chamber officers and members, this workshop equips participants with tools, strategies, and shared best practices to strengthen chamber operations and impact across the Visayas region.
July 26, 2025preferred tour location

Post Conference Tours

After the conference, why not extend your stay and explore the natural beauty, rich culture, and historical landmarks of Eastern Visayas? Check for tour details in this page.

WHAT TO WEAR

In July, the weather in Tacloban is typically hot and humid with occasional rain. We recommend wearing light, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes — but be sure to bring an umbrella or light rain jacket to stay dry between venues.

 

OFFICIAL CONFERENCE ATTIRE GUIDE

JULY 23 | NIGHT                                                  Commerce Exchange                                                                          Smart Casual

JULY 24 | DAY                                                      Conference Day 1                                                                                Business Attire

JULY 24 | NIGHT                                                  Welcome  Dinner: Digital Dreamland                                              Technicolor Techno

JULY 25 | DAY                                                      Conference Day 2                                                                                Filipiniana / Barong

JULY 25 | NIGHT                                                  Fellowship Night: Modern Pintados                                                 Festive Flair

STYLE GUIDE

Technicolor Techno

For the Digital Dreamland Welcome Dinner, we’re embracing a Technicolor Technoaesthetic — a vibrant fusion of business chic and bold creative expression. Start with a sleek black outfit as your foundation — then add electric pops of color through accessories, jackets, shoes, or statement pieces.

Festive Flair

Let your creativity shine and proudly showcase your local traditions — whether it’s vibrant headpiece, handcrafted accessories, or a meaningful symbol from your hometown festival.

* All PCCI members will be provided with the official 2025 PCCI Visayas Festival Shirt. Shirt Design for illustration purposes only and is subject to change.

Register to Visayas Area Business Conference now!

Lock in the lowest price for VABC. Get the Early Bird Rate now and we’ll contact you with more details when it’s time to complete your registration

Hotel Accommodations

Post-ConferenceTours

How To Get Around

During the conference, complimentary shuttle services will be available for all registered delegates, covering key routes between hotels, the Leyte Convention Center Complex, and other event venues.

While Tacloban City currently does not have taxis or Grab services, other public transportation options such as multicabs, jeepneys, and tricycles are readily available. Delegates may also opt to book private car services through our accredited partners.

Shuttle schedules will be released one week before the event. For any assistance, please feel free to contact the PCCI Secretariat at any time.

Shuttle Service

A look from the Past

Relive the highlights and key takeaways from 33rd's Visayas Area Business Conference

Register Now for VABC

Lock in the lowest price for VABC. A limited number of registration slot are now available for ₱4,500 only until June 30, 2025. Register now and we'll contact you with more details when it's time to complete your registration

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Conference Registration

Flexible pricing with no surprises

Hot!

Early Bird Rate(Available only until June 30, 2025)

4,500
  • 10% Discount off
  • Front Seats
  • Unlimited Entrance
  • Free Coffee/Snacks
  • Printed Materials
  • Day One Workshop
  • One Certificate
REGISTER NOW

Regular Rate

5,000
  • Front Seats
  • Unlimited Entrance
  • Free Coffee/Snacks
  • Printed Materials
  • Day One Workshop
  • One Certificate
Get Registration

Need additional pricing info? Get in touch for custom and high-volume pricing.

Latest News

Partners/Sponsors

A huge thanks to all our amazing partners. We couldn’t have a conference without you!

DTI_Logo
DepartmenOfTourism
Palo_logo
leyte_provl_logo
departmentofeconomyplanninganddevelopment_logo
The_Shawarma_Shack_logo
ICS_logo
grainsmartcafe_logo
dost-logo
Department_of_Information_and_Communications_Technology__DICT_LOGO

Interested in becoming a sponsor?

If your company is interested in sponsoring Visayas Area Business Conference this year, we’d love to hear from you. Send us a quick email and we’ll get right back to you with some more information and our sponsorship brochure.

Conference Venue

Location that you'll be looking for

The 34th Visayas Area Business Conference will be held at the Leyte Convention Center Complex, located in Palo, Leyte — just a few minutes away from downtown Tacloban City. For this year's conference, we will be utilizing all three halls of the complex — the Main Hall and Annexes A & B — to accommodate plenary sesions, breakout forums, exhibits, and networking activities.

Get Directions:

Enter Destination From input field below to get directions to our event location

Destination From

Destination To

Venue

Leyte Academic Center Convention Complex

52G3+R3Q, Palo, Leyte

Phone: +639367828275

Transport

Our venue is 2-minutes walk from Petron Gasoline Station. The venue is conveniently accessible by various public transport options. Jeepneys, buses, and multicabs regularly pass by the venue.

Parking

Parking can be tricky in Palo, Leyte. Your best option is to use the Google Maps Nearby Parking Lot.

Places To Stay

Make the most of your visit and stay the night. If you want to be super near the conference venue then take a look at Google Maps Nearby Places to Stay.

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