Manufacturing Week Opens with Focus on Industry Innovation

The Philippine manufacturing sector gathered at the World Trade Center Metro Manila as Philippine Manufacturing Week 2026 officially opened, bringing together local and international exhibitors, government agencies, industry associations, and business leaders for a three-day event focused on advancing industrial growth through innovation and technology.

Held from July 23 to 25, the event combines two major trade exhibitions—the 3rd Auto Parts and Vehicles Expo (APVE) Philippines 2026 and the 12th Philippine Die and Mould Machinery and Equipment Exhibition (PDMEX). The twin exhibitions provide a comprehensive platform where companies can showcase the latest machinery, automotive components, manufacturing equipment, and engineering solutions that support the country’s expanding industrial sector.

The opening program highlighted the government’s continued commitment to strengthening manufacturing and attracting investments. Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) Deputy Director General for Operations Vivian Santos underscored the agency’s efforts to improve the country’s competitiveness by offering investment incentives, expanding infrastructure, and creating policies that encourage industrial development.

Cooperative Development Authority Chairperson Ferdinand Jesus Ortega also emphasized the importance of supporting transport cooperatives and automotive-related micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). He cited financing programs and capability-building initiatives that aim to help local businesses improve productivity and remain competitive in an evolving market.

One of the major highlights of this year’s event is the expanded Auto Parts and Vehicles Expo, which features exhibitors from China, Taiwan, Thailand, and other countries. The growing international participation reflects increasing confidence in the Philippines as a strategic destination for automotive manufacturing, aftermarket products, and industrial investments in Southeast Asia.

Meanwhile, PDMEX continues to spotlight advancements in die and mould manufacturing, precision engineering, and tooling technologies that play a vital role in producing automotive parts, electronics, appliances, and other industrial products. Organized by the Philippine Die and Mold Association (PDMA) in partnership with Informa Markets Philippines, the exhibition showcases innovations designed to improve manufacturing efficiency and product quality.

According to Informa Markets Philippines Country General Manager Rungphech Chitanuwat, combining APVE and PDMEX under Philippine Manufacturing Week creates a complete manufacturing ecosystem where businesses can explore every stage of production—from precision tooling and component manufacturing to automotive technologies and aftermarket services.

Beyond the exhibition halls, the event also features conferences and technical sessions covering emerging industry topics such as electric vehicles, robotics, advanced welding systems, fleet modernization, precision engineering, digital manufacturing, quality control, and financing opportunities for MSMEs.

Organizers expect around 8,000 participants, including manufacturers, engineers, suppliers, distributors, business owners, procurement professionals, and government representatives. Supported by agencies such as the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and PEZA, Philippine Manufacturing Week 2026 continues to serve as a key platform for collaboration, technology adoption, and sustainable industrial development in the Philippines.