Makati City, Philippines — Entrepreneurs and industry leaders explored how innovation, digital platforms, and regional collaboration can drive inclusive economic growth during a panel discussion titled “Inclusive Prosperity and MSME Empowerment” at the ASEAN Editors and Economic Opinion Leaders Forum held on February 24, 2026 at Fairmont Hotel Makati.
Moderated by broadcast journalist Karen Davila, the session brought together leaders from technology, food manufacturing, hospitality, and digital commerce to examine how micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) can scale in an increasingly interconnected regional economy.
The panel featured Eliza Antonino, Founding Partner of The Moment Group; Michelle Tiu Lim-Chan, President and CEO of Mega Prime Foods; Yves Gonzalez, Head of Public Policy for TikTok Philippines; Kelly Go, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Auro Chocolate; and George Royeca, CEO and Co-Founder of Angkas. Department of Trade and Industry Assistant Secretary Nylah Bautista joined the session as a resource person.
The discussion highlighted how entrepreneurship, innovation, and supportive policy environments are shaping new opportunities for MSMEs across Southeast Asia.
Innovation Opening New Pathways for Work and Enterprise
Angkas founder George Royeca described how innovation can help formalize economic activity and expand livelihood opportunities.
Before the emergence of app-based ride-hailing services, motorcycle back-riding was already widespread but largely informal. Royeca explained that platforms like Angkas introduced structured systems that included safety standards, training, and engagement with regulators.
Today, the platform supports more than 30,000 riders, many of whom have transitioned from informal work into more stable income opportunities.
Royeca emphasized that economic development should focus not only on financial metrics but also on expanding access to opportunity.
“When people have access to opportunity, they are able to build better futures for their families,” he said, noting that structured platforms can help create more inclusive pathways into the formal economy.
Filipino Brands Expanding into Global Markets
Panelists also discussed how Philippine companies are gaining traction in international markets.
Kelly Go of Auro Chocolate highlighted the company’s strategy of showcasing Filipino identity through products made with 100 percent locally sourced cacao. By emphasizing origin, culture, and storytelling, the brand has positioned Filipino chocolate as a premium offering for global consumers.
Similarly, Michelle Tiu Lim-Chan of Mega Prime Foods shared how the company evolved from a small sardine producer into a global exporter.
The firm now exports to more than 30 countries, with markets across Asia and the Middle East. Lim-Chan noted that government-supported trade fairs and export programs have played an important role in helping local manufacturers connect with international buyers.
Digital Platforms Enabling the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs
Digital commerce is also transforming the MSME landscape.
According to Yves Gonzalez of TikTok Philippines, the platform’s e-commerce ecosystem has become a significant channel for small businesses.
Approximately 90 percent of sales on TikTok Shop in the Philippines come from local MSMEs, many of whom operate home-based businesses or small-scale production.
Digital platforms are enabling entrepreneurs to reach broader audiences without the need for traditional retail infrastructure. At the same time, panelists acknowledged the need to streamline digital compliance and verification processes to support the growing number of online sellers entering the market.
Scaling Businesses Through People and Supply Chains
For hospitality entrepreneur Eliza Antonino, the key challenge in scaling a business lies not only in expansion but also in developing capable teams.
The Moment Group, which operates multiple restaurant brands across dozens of locations, has grown through a leadership model that empowers managers to take ownership of operations and develop their own teams.
Antonino also pointed to supply chain constraints affecting the food service industry. Many restaurants still rely on imported ingredients due to gaps in domestic supply capacity, highlighting the need for stronger coordination between agriculture and large-scale buyers.
Strengthening these links, she said, would benefit both farmers and the growing food and hospitality sectors.
ASEAN Collaboration and Regional Opportunity
The panel concluded with a broader discussion on the role of ASEAN cooperation in supporting entrepreneurship.
Panelists highlighted opportunities for MSMEs to expand through stronger regional trade links, more accessible cross-border markets, and closer collaboration among Southeast Asian businesses.
Greater alignment in trade policies, digital regulations, and innovation ecosystems could help entrepreneurs operate more seamlessly across ASEAN economies.
These developments may open new pathways for Philippine companies seeking to scale their products and services within the region.
Insights for the Philippine SME Ecosystem
PHILSME CEO and Managing Director Trixie Esguerra-Abrenilla attended the forum and observed the MSME panel discussion, noting the shared focus on innovation, digitalization, and regional collaboration as key drivers of growth for entrepreneurs.
The discussion underscored how partnerships among entrepreneurs, technology platforms, and policymakers can help build a more inclusive and resilient business environment for MSMEs.
As regional economies become increasingly interconnected, conversations like those at the ASEAN Editors and Economic Opinion Leaders Forum provide valuable insights into how Southeast Asia’s entrepreneurial ecosystem continues to evolve.
About PHILSME
PHILSME is a national business platform designed to connect Filipino entrepreneurs with solutions, partnerships, and opportunities that drive sustainable growth—locally and globally.The 18th PHILSME Business Expo & Conference will be held on May 22–23, 2026 at the SMX Convention Center Manila.
