On Monday, September 18, 2023, the 47th floor of UnionBank Plaza in Ortigas Center, Pasig City, was transformed into a hub of energy and enthusiasm. Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) from various industries gathered for the highly anticipated "Rev Up Your Business: A Networking and Learning Session." Hosted by Marga Bellosillo from UnionBank's MSME Marketing Segment and Donna Musni from UnionBank GlobalLinker's Community Manager, this event was designed to equip SMEs with the knowledge and insights essential for their growth and success.

Efficient Fuel Consumption Strategies with Jonathan Cristobal

The event kicked off the exploration of a critical aspect of business operations: fuel consumption. Jonathan Cristobal, Assistant Vice President for Customer Segment Marketing at SEAOIL Philippines, took the stage. Cristobal's impressive career spans over two decades, with experience in B2B product development, marketing, sales, and training. He has held positions in renowned companies such as Leo Burnett and Kimberly-Clark.

Cristobal introduced attendees to efficient fuel consumption practices, a topic that resonated deeply with SME owners looking to reduce operational costs and enhance overall efficiency. He presented Pricelocq, a solution designed to help businesses outsmart fuel price volatility.

Mastering Financial Management with Jaypee Soliman

Next on the agenda was Jaypee Soliman, Senior Vice President and Head of Business Banking at UnionBank of the Philippines, who graced the stage. With a career spanning over a decade at UnionBank, Soliman is a seasoned expert in financial matters and a passionate advocate for the advancement of SMEs.

Soliman shared valuable insights on managing business finances efficiently, a topic often regarded as intimidating by many entrepreneurs. Attendees gained practical knowledge on optimizing financial resources, with a special focus on areas like lending, technology, and deposit services. His commitment to supporting MSMEs was palpable as he delved into topics such as financial inclusion, e-commerce, digital transformation, and financial literacy programs. Soliman's session proved to be a true asset for SMEs looking to navigate the complex financial landscape.

Unlocking the Potential of the New Filipino Shopper with Anton Gonzales

The grand finale of the event featured Anton Gonzales, a results-driven CEO with over 27 years of experience in leading and driving growth in the sportswear business. Gonzales is an award-winning retailer and a market leader in sports and active brand distribution in the Philippines. Additionally, he is a Certified Executive Coach with a global certification and holds significant leadership positions within the Entrepreneur's Organization of the Philippines (EO Philippines) and SouthEast Asia.

Gonzales' presentation centered on unlocking the potential of the new Filipino Shopper, emphasizing the importance of leadership and growth in the ever-evolving business landscape. His insights provided attendees with a roadmap for crafting and executing effective business plans. Gonzales' talk resonated deeply with the audience, inspiring them to prioritize personal and professional growth as an integral element of business development.

Prizes, Networking, and Acknowledgments

The event was not only about gaining knowledge but also about celebrating and rewarding attendees. One fortunate participant Mr. Ralph Coral left with an exciting prize—a pair of Hamilton Tickets, promising an unforgettable theater experience. However, the excitement didn't stop there. Two lucky attendees Mr. Lorenzo Castillo and Ramil Cabrera secured exclusive business mentoring sessions with experts from the Entrepreneur's Organization of the Philippines (EO Philippines). These mentoring sessions held the promise of unlocking new opportunities and strategies for business growth.

The event also featured engaging networking opportunities, enabling SME owners and business enthusiasts to connect, share experiences, and build valuable relationships. These interactions showcased the power of collaboration and the potential for future partnerships.

The whole team behind this event, along with the esteemed speakers, ensured that this day was an enriching and memorable experience for everyone. As the event's legacy continues, it will undoubtedly live on in the form of empowered SMEs, strengthened business strategies, and lasting connections.

"Rev Up Your Business: A Networking and Learning Session" was nothing short of a resounding success. It served as a beacon of support and knowledge for SMEs, reaffirming UnionBank's commitment to empowering them. The attendees carried with them newfound knowledge, actionable insights & a sense of camaraderie. This day underscored the importance of continuous learning and collaboration.

UnionBank extends its heartfelt gratitude to the event's sponsors: Seaoil Philippines, EO Philippines, Jobstreet by SEEK, and, of course, the passionate attendees. Their support and participation contributed to making this event a remarkable success.

Should you be interested in delving into partnership possibilities, please don't hesitate to contact Natasha Kosheleva by sending an email to natasha@grover.sg.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views, official policy, or position of GlobalLinker.