ILOILO CITY – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region VI is bringing together the biggest names in business and government for the Western Visayas Business Conference and Expo 2025 (WV-BIZCONEX 2025) on July 1–2 at the Grand Xing Imperial Hotel, Iloilo City.

This two-day event is expected to be the largest business conference in the region, bringing new opportunities especially for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Panay, Guimaras, and Negros Occidental.

Promotional banner for the Western Visayas Business Conference & Expo 2025 (WV-BIZCONEX), scheduled for July 1–2, 2025, in Iloilo City. The banner features the event logo, the tagline 'Bridging Businesses • Connecting Industries,' and logos of DTI Region VI, the Regional Development Council, and partner organizations.

The event is a joint effort of DTI and the Regional Development Council’s Economic Development Committee, led by Atty. Jobert Peñaflorida of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry and DTI Regional Director Rachel Nufable.

The first day of the conference will feature panel talks with government leaders from agriculture, labor, tourism, cooperatives, and more. They’ll tackle issues on business financing, digital technology, and how to grow your business and reach more customers. There will also be talks on franchising and proven business models that work in the provinces.

On the second day, topics focus on financial literacy, access to capital, and how to take advantage of digital tools for modern businesses. Experts will share how MSMEs can become tech-savvy and future-ready.

A key highlight is the “Unity in Leadership” forum, where all provincial governors of Western Visayas and the Mayor of Iloilo City will present their plans for economic growth, a strong show of teamwork to boost the region’s economy.

Throughout the event, local entrepreneurs and innovators will also share success stories and give tips on leadership, digital business, and joining government programs like procurement and exporting.

“This is more than a conference,” said DTI Regional Director Rachel Nufable. “We’re building a movement to help every MSME grow, innovate, and succeed not just locally but globally.”

To cap it off, DTI will hold an awarding ceremony to honor outstanding MSMEs and Bagwis Awardees, businesses known for excellent service and fair trading practices. WV-BIZCONEX 2025 is all about collaboration, innovation, and giving every small business a chance to thrive. With full support from both the public and private sectors, this event will help Western Visayas become stronger, smarter, and more inclusive for entrepreneurs. ♦

Date of Release: 01 June 2025