More than 200 business leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers from across the region gathered at What’s Up Western Visayas 2025 last July 18 at Courtyard by Marriott Iloilo to take part in the region’s boldest leap toward a future powered by innovation, integration, and inclusive growth.
Now on its third installment since 2022, What’s Up Western Visayas forms a central highlight of Iloilo Business Month 2025, a celebration of enterprise and collaboration across the province. With the theme “Innovate. Integrate. Elevate: Powering Western Visayas for the Future,” the conference offered a compelling lineup of plenaries, fireside chats, and networking opportunities—bringing public and private sector leaders together in one room.
The program opened with welcome messages from PCCI Western Visayas Regional Governor Atty. Jobert Peñaflorida, Iloilo Governor Hon. Arthur Defensor Jr., and newly elected Iloilo City Mayor Hon. Raisa Treñas-Chu, all expressing strong support for inclusive economic development and stronger regional collaboration.
Among the featured speakers was Prof. Oscar Bulaong Jr., PhD of the Ateneo Graduate School of Business, who delivered a talk on purpose-driven leadership. Mr. Roel Z. Castro, President & CEO of MORE Power, highlighted the strategic advantages of investing in Western Visayas’ thriving energy and infrastructure sectors. Mr. Dom Hernandez, Operating Partner at Kaya Founders, shared opportunities in angel investing and strategic franchising for local enterprises.
In the afternoon, Ms. Judy Murillo, Regional Director for External Affairs at Carelon Global Solutions Philippines, emphasized future-ready workforce strategies. She was followed by Mr. Kislay Chandra, COO of Sprout Solutions, who presented practical lessons on scaling tech-enabled solutions born from local challenges. The two also engaged in a fireside chat exploring the intersection of tech, people, and regional transformation.
Prof. Xavier Alpasa, Chief Strategist of Xavier and Associates, shared insights on empowering social enterprises, while media personality and brand expert Mr. Boy Abunda closed the day with a compelling keynote on authentic branding in the digital era.
PCCI Iloilo President Engr. Fulbert C. Woo lauded the strong collaboration behind the event, which he noted was "a testament to the power of partnerships" between business, government, and civil society. The conference was spearheaded by PCCI Iloilo and supported by the Iloilo Provincial Government of Iloilo, the Iloilo City Government, More Electric and Power Corporation, and various local and national sponsors.
As part of Iloilo Business Month, What’s Up Western Visayas continues to inspire regional action by equipping local leaders with knowledge, connections, and a shared vision for progress.