Following the resounding success of Philippine Startup Week (PHSW) 2025, the Innovative Startup Act (ISA) Committee, now chaired by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), is charting a bolder, ASEAN-aligned vision for PHSW 2026.
PHSW 2025 marked a historic milestone as the ISA Steering Committee handed over its chairmanship from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) to DICT. In collaboration with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the National Development Company (NDC), this year’s edition celebrated innovation, strategic alliances, and national impact.
The event featured inspiring keynotes, high-potential startup pitches, awards recognizing Filipino ingenuity, and showcases that highlighted breakthrough solutions in technology and business. With 8 Main Conferences, 39 community-driven events, and nearly 150 startups on display, PHSW 2025 drew almost 2,000 participants nationwide. The Philippine Innovation Hub in Marikina served as the central stage for the weeklong celebration, held from November 11 to 14.
Looking ahead, the ISA Committee under DICT aims to elevate PHSW 2026 by aligning the Philippines’ startup initiatives with ASEAN’s digital transformation and innovation priorities. With the country set to assume the ASEAN Chairship in 2026, the focus will be on preparing Filipino startups to thrive not just locally, but regionally and globally.
Guided by ASEAN’s theme, “Navigating Our Future, Together,” PHSW 2026 will strengthen cross-border collaboration across Southeast Asia’s innovation ecosystems. The event will position the Philippines as a hub for startup development, offering emerging technologies, world-class Filipino ventures, and platforms for engagement with investors, corporates, and policymakers across ASEAN.
Beyond celebration, PHSW 2026 will spotlight startups driving social impact, sustainability, and digital innovation, reinforcing the Philippines’ role as a competitive, connected, and globally relevant player in the regional startup landscape.
