Davao City became the launchpad for Tech Week PH 2025, a pioneering multi-city event by PLDT Enterprise designed to shape the future of business and technology in the Philippines. Held at Aves Function Room, Acacia Hotel, J.P. Laurel Avenue, Lanang, Davao City, the event gathered industry leaders, technology experts, and entrepreneurs to explore how digital tools, artificial intelligence (AI), cloud solutions, and advanced connectivity can drive business growth in an evolving digital landscape.
As part of PLDT Enterprise’s commitment to fostering progress and innovation, Tech Week PH 2025 serves as a platform for thought leadership, networking, and collaboration. The event highlighted the critical role of digital transformation in stimulating economic growth beyond Metro Manila, positioning Davao as a key player in the country’s digital expansion. Experts shared insights on how regional businesses could leverage smart solutions and e-commerce platforms to expand their reach and enhance their competitiveness in national and global markets.
Emphasizing the significance of bringing events like Tech Week PH to regional areas like Davao, Mitch Locsin, First Vice President and Head of Enterprise Core Business, PLDT and Smart, shared, “Tech Week PH serves as a catalyst for transformation and growth among businesses across the Philippines. From micro to large enterprises, each business has its own set of needs, challenges, and goals. At PLDT Enterprise, our role is to empower them by providing platforms like Tech Week PH—bringing in industry leaders and experts to share insights and spark innovation. We're not just educating; we’re enabling action. That’s our commitment—to help businesses grow and deliver real, tangible results.”
During Tech Week PH in Davao, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Davao Regional Director Romeo Castañaga emphasized DTI’s initiatives in supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in their digital transition.
“We have programs focused on capacity building, upscaling, and advocacy to encourage businesses to engage in e-commerce and digitalize their operations,” he said.
“Through physical and online seminars, we collaborate with platforms like Google and Lazada and invite experts from the academe to educate and inspire MSMEs to enter the digital space.” Castañaga noted that Tech Week PH serves as a valuable opportunity for businesses to stay ahead of technological advancements. “This event is instrumental in raising awareness and providing education on emerging technologies. With the support of PLDT Enterprise, we can easily bring stakeholders and entrepreneurs together to seize these opportunities,” he added.
The afternoon session also spotlighted TikTok Shop Philippines, showcasing its role in driving sustainable e-commerce growth. Marketing Lead for TikTok Shop Philippines, Franco Aligaen, and Education Manager for TikTok Shop Philippines, Klaude Mandaya, led discussions on how social commerce, recommendation systems, and data-driven marketing are revolutionizing online selling.
Aligaen highlighted TikTok Shop’s efforts to empower local businesses. “With campaigns like ‘Buy Local, Shop Local,’ we aim to promote Filipino businesses and products at a national level, providing Davao-based entrepreneurs the visibility they need,” he said. The session also explored Shoppertainment, a dynamic approach merging entertainment and commerce to create engaging shopping experiences. “With the shoppertainment model, businesses can align their strategies with engaging content, keeping their audiences entertained while driving sales,” Aligaen explained.
He further emphasized the significance of hosting Tech Week PH in Davao. “Tech Week PH in Davao signals that the internet economy and e-commerce are now more accessible, ensuring that businesses in Mindanao have the same opportunities as those in Luzon and Visayas. We want to continue supporting entrepreneurs in these regions so they can maximize the potential of TikTok Shop in growing their businesses,” he said.
The discussions at Tech Week PH Davao reinforced the city's growing prominence as a regional digital hub, driven by its expanding tech ecosystem and the increasing adoption of digital solutions among local enterprises. As businesses embrace e-commerce, AI, and cloud technology, Davao is poised to play a pivotal role in the country’s broader digital economy. With PLDT Enterprise leading the charge, Tech Week PH 2025 will continue its regional roadshow, bringing conversations on digital transformation, connectivity, and innovation to more key cities across the Philippines. As enterprises seize new opportunities presented by technology, the vision of a digitally empowered Philippines moves closer to reality.