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Thursday, April 2, 2026

Empowering the Filipina: WomenBizPH Trade Fair at SM Lanang Premier Showcases MSME Resilience

In a vibrant celebration of female ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit, the WomenBizPH Trade Fair officially took center stage at SM Lanang Premier from March 12–14, 2026. This three-day event, organized by the Women’s Business Council Philippines (WomenBizPH) in a strategic partnership with SM Supermalls, served as a high-visibility platform for Filipina-led micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to showcase their creativity, resilience, and local artistry.

From artisanal pastries and handcrafted fashion to health-conscious snacks and wellness essentials, the fair was more than a marketplace—it was a testament to the growing impact of women in the Philippine economy.




Stories of Purpose: The Women Behind the Brands

The heart of the WomenBizPH Trade Fair lies in the narratives of the women who lead these businesses. These entrepreneurs are not just selling products; they are transforming personal passions into sustainable livelihoods and community opportunities.

Sustainable Fashion with a Social Soul

Sassy’s Creation Enterprise stood out as a beacon of sustainable innovation. By merging traditional Philippine weaving techniques with modern design, the brand creates ethically curated fashion staples. However, the true beauty of Sassy’s lies in its production model. The brand empowers home-based mothers and women from the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) in Antipolo, Rizal. By providing these women with dignified work, Sassy’s proves that "EveryBODY" can be part of the fashion cycle while uplifting the marginalized.

Preserving Culinary Heritage

For Cynthia M. Eusebio, the owner of Magpoc’s Pastry Products Manufacturing in Bataan, the business is a sacred family trust. As a third-generation leader, Eusebio honors the women before her by preserving traditional recipes, such as their famous Araro cookies, while modernizing the brand for the digital age. "Magpoc’s isn’t just a label—it’s a legacy," she shared, highlighting how her MSME provides consistent support for her local community.

The Strength of Resilience

Cebu-based entrepreneur Cuevas Planas, founder of Kirby’s Chicharon, shared a moving story of starting from scratch. Beginning as a small-scale vendor selling to offices and local stores, her business became a lifeline during personal hardships. "That small income became my hope and my courage," Planas remarked. Her journey from survival to strength serves as an inspiration for many aspiring women entrepreneurs attending the fair.

Innovation in Health and Wellness

Representing the CALABARZON region, Flaviano’s Health Food Products from Laguna demonstrated that even global crises like the pandemic could not stop the spirit of innovation. By focusing on healthy food options and continuous product development, Flaviano’s has successfully tapped into the growing consumer demand for wellness, proving that agility is a hallmark of women-led MSMEs.


SM Supermalls: The Ultimate Launchpad for Filipino Brands

Through the SM for MSMEs program, SM Supermalls continues to be the primary partner for local businesses looking to scale. By providing prime retail space in high-traffic destinations like SM Lanang Premier, SM helps small brands transition into mainstream household names.

Joaquin San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing at SM Supermalls, emphasized this vision: "At SM Supermalls, we see MSMEs not just as exhibitors but as future brands in the making. By providing accessible platforms where entrepreneurs can connect with customers, we help nurture the next generation of Filipino icons."

This partnership reflects a long-term commitment to inclusive economic growth. By supporting women-led businesses, SM and WomenBizPH are directly contributing to community development and the empowerment of families nationwide.


Celebrating Women’s Month 2026

As part of the Women’s Month celebrations at SM, shoppers were encouraged to "Buy Local" and support the stories behind the products. When a customer purchases from a woman-led MSME, they are doing more than just buying a gift—they are investing in the education of a child, the livelihood of an artisan, and the future of a community leader.

The WomenBizPH Trade Fair at SM Lanang Premier stands as a vibrant symbol of what is possible when tradition, creativity, and opportunity intersect. As these Filipina entrepreneurs continue to rise, they inspire the next generation to dream bigger and lead bolder.

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