Go Negosyo celebrates Filipina entrepreneurs

Filipina entrepreneurs garnered recognition during the annual Women Summit on Saturday at the Ayala Malls Manila Bay in Parañaque City.

The summit, organized by nonprofit Go Negosyo, celebrates women’s achievements and contributions to society and the economy in various fields and industries.

It also honored women-led micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) nationwide.

Nearly 2,000 women entrepreneurs attended the event, along with First Lady Liza Marcos, Go Negosyo founder Joey Concepcion, US Ambassador MaryKay Carlson and Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual.

The annual Inspiring Filipina Entrepreneurs Awards was simultaneously held during the summit, with 19 outstanding Filipinos chosen from the hundreds of nominations received.

Robina Gokongwei-Pe received the Woman of Legacy Award.

Also awarded were Allyn Joy Cabarles of Kaulayaw Coffee, Annette Patdu of Diaspora Farm, Camille Escudero of Lily of the Valley, Cristina Balao-as Cayat of Inabel Tailoring, Czarina Sevilla of Avocadoria PH, Emilyn Kabor of Jireh Food Products, Katrina Blanca de Leon of Genteel Home, Maria Rafaella Louise Sol of Nuevo Ystilo and Marica Peñalosa of Ate Rica’s Bacsilog.

Marie Joyce Co Yu of True Blends & Coffee, Frances Uma Espinosa of The Original Paeng’s, Jonnah Garcia of Punique Handicrafts, Marjorie Barcelona of Healthy Lemon, Leah Marie Ayeng of Prestige Paper Products, Anna Melissa Nava of 1Export Trade and Services, Anna Magalona of But First Coffee and Denise Caranto of Konu also received recognition.

Speakers at the event were GMA’s Annette Gozon-Valdez, renowned chef Gaita Fores, mining executive Caroline Tanchay, designer Vania Romoff and Canva’s Yani Donato.

Panel discussions centered on the theme “Harnessing the Digital Age to Empower Women,” with topics such as translating creative vision into business, envisioning sustainable businesses centered around agriculture, breaking gender barriers in maledominated professions, succeeding in an industry transformed by AI, effective financial management for MSMEs, effective branding using digital tools, impactful content creation, opportunities in eco-friendly businesses, women in e-sports and the business of beauty.

Celebrity women entrepreneurs Cristalle Belo Henares, Miss Universe Philippines Angelique Manto and TV host Atasha Muhlach were featured in inspirational sessions.