Despite heavy rains and challenging flood conditions, the first-ever Entrepreneurs’ Night held at Hotel Okura Manila brought together a dynamic crowd of some 80 entrepreneurs, embassy officials, marketing executives, and government representatives on a memorable evening of networking.
Among the attendees were representatives of the embassies of Japan, Poland, United Kingdom, Romania, Laos, and Switzerland; and the chambers of commerce of Italy and Switzerland.
Asia Manila Prime Properties, Duty Free Philippines, and Top Line set up booths to showcase their products and services.
“We thank everyone who made this inaugural event successful. We’re thrilled to see such enthusiasm despite the weather. Tonight highlights the drive of Manila’s entrepreneurs to build connections that support growth and resilience,” said Monsi Alfonsi Serrano, publisher of THEPHILBIZNEWS that organized the event.
Palladium sponsors include CDO Foodsphere Inc., Converge ICT Solutions, Duty Free Philippines, ES Print Media Inc., GCash, Meralco, RCBC, The Manor at Camp John Hay, and Top Line Business Development Corp.
Partner sponsors include Abyan Management Services Corp., Asia Manila Prime Properties, Avzea Studios, Barkero Developers, Cleanfuel, FinTech Alliance, FIRST Atkins Holdings Corp. (FAHC), Grab Philippines, IONTEK Power Solutions Corporation, Kin No Tori Kara, Lola Tita De Cacao, Luis Bakery, MPT South Corporation, San Miguel Food and Beverage, Inc., Tinapayan, The Forest Lodge at Camp John Hay, and Top Line-Light Fuels.
Chamber partners include the British, Italian, Nordic, and Swiss Chambers of Commerce in the Philippines.
Japanese entrepreneur Ryo Tateno delivered a presentation on the potential of entering the Philippine market through the franchising of Japan’s leading chicken karaage restaurant, Kin No Tori Kara.
Entrepreneurs’ Night, held at Hotel Okura’s sophisticated event space, featured an open mixer format aimed at enhancing partnerships across industries.
“We designed this event as a venue for participants to freely and in a relaxed manner exchange ideas, build relationships, and explore potential collaborations,” said Serrano.
Hotel Okura’s renowned Japanese buffet, with premium drinks flowing freely, complemented the evening’s relaxed and collegial atmosphere, providing a convivial backdrop to the business-focused gathering.
Attendees praised the event for offering both practical and enjoyable networking experiences, with entrepreneurs and professionals alike engaged in lively discussions throughout the evening.
“We would like to participate in any similar event again,” said Mark Fong, a Chinese-Filipino entrepreneur.
Adding to the excitement were the highly anticipated raffle prizes, which included exclusive overnight stays at The Manor in Camp John Hay and Hotel Okura Manila, lanterns from Pampanga courtesy of Converge, 10 pieces of holiday ham from CDO, 12 cases of San Miguel beer, P10,000 worth of gift certificates courtesy of MPT South, a Canon printer from ES Print Media.
Hotel Okura Manila and THEPHILBIZNEWS look forward to establishing Entrepreneurs’ Night as an annual affair that will bring together leaders and professionals from across sectors.
Its successful conduct Thursday night sets the stage for future gatherings that encourage communication, collaboration, and growth among Manila’s business community.