4th Annual Hawaiʻi-Philippines Business Tradeshow, Symposium, and Reception
Event Schedule
Marketplace (2PM - 6PM)
2 PM
Tradeshow Exhibitor Categories
- consumer packaged goods
- textiles and heritage crafts
- tourism destinations
- investment opportunities
- technology and service solutions
Symposium (3PM - 5:30PM)
2:30 PM
Refreshments
3:00 PM
Opening Ceremony
Opening Introductions
- Annalisa Burgos
Welcome Remarks
- DBEDT Director James Tokioka
- Senate President Ron Kouchi, Hawaiʻi State Senate
- House Speaker Nadine Nakamura
Acknowledgement of Delegations
- Consul General Arman R. Talbo, Philippine Consulate General – Honolulu
- Governor Cecilia Araneta Marcos, Ilocos Norte – Remarks
Hawaiʻi State Legislature Gift and Resolution Presentation to Governor Marcos
3:30 PM
Panel Discussion 1: Island Economies in Partnership – Trade Investment & Market Access
This panel explores how Hawaiʻi and key Philippine provinces can deepen their economic partnership through expanded two-way trade, stronger networks, and coordinated regional strategies. Panelists will discuss opportunities to scale provincial product exports into the Hawaiʻi market, while also highlighting pathways for Hawaiʻi-made products and services to grow their presence across partner provinces. The conversation will consider the role of the Filipino diaspora’s business networks in accelerating market access on both sides.
The panel will address critical trade infrastructure and logistics challenges that impact cross-border movement of goods, offering practical insights for improving efficiency and market readiness. Leaders will also examine how sister-state, sister-province, and chamber-to-chamber agreements can formalize cooperation and open new channels for collaboration. Additionally, the session will showcase the potential of strong regional branding – particularly from Ilocos Norte and its partner provinces – to elevate visibility, competitiveness, and consumer trust. Together, these discussion aim to shape a forward-looking framework for resilient, mutually beneficial trade and investment between Hawaiʻi and emerging provincial economies.
Moderators
- Senator Rachele Lamosao
- Representative Greggor Ilagan
Panelists
- Soya Cheng Bueno, Provincial Government Representative – Ilocos Norte
- Constancio Paranal III, Office of Economic Revitalization – City and County of Honolulu
- Keith Kanetani, Engineer – Engineering Partners, Inc.
- Melody Calisay, Ph.D., President – East West Marketing
- Sherry Menor, President – Chamber of Commerce of Hawaiʻi
4:40 PM
Panel Discussion 2: Workforce, Talent & Innovation Across Borders
Hawaiʻi stands at a critical moment where workforce needs, economic diversification, and youth opportunity intersect. This panel brings together leaders from across industries and regions to explore collaborative strategies that strengthen talent pipelines and create shared prosperity. Discussion will focus on addressing Hawaiʻi’s workforce shortages especially in education and healthcare, improving skills alignment between international partners and local industries, and advancing tourism and hospitality through innovative cross-regional cooperation.
Panelists will also spotlight the importance of empowering youth and next-generation entrepreneurs – cultivating a dynamic future workforce equipped to drive Hawaiʻi’s evolving economy. Together, they will examine practical solutions, successful models and new pathways for building a resilient, future-ready workforce across the islands and beyond.
Moderators
- Senator Lynn DeCoite, Ilocos Norte
- Xavier Ruiz, Ilocos Norte
Panelists
- James Urbaniak, Lead Recruiter, Dept. of Education (Workforce Development Recruiter)
- Erick Medrano, J-1 Teacher – Highlands Intermediate School
- Aian Raquel, Tourism Head – Ilocos Norte
- Will Sib-at, Youth Development Head – Ilocos Norte
- Hilton Raethel, President & CEO – Healthcare Association of Hawaiʻi (Healthcare Workforce Sector Leader)
- Bennette Misalucha, Executive Director – Workforce Development Council
- Jill Radke, Public Affairs Officer – Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority
5:30 PM
Break
Reception (6PM - 8:30PM)
6:00 PM
Doors Open
6:10 PM
Opening
- Annalisa Burgos
6:20 PM
Welcome and Keynote Address
- Governor Josh Green, M.D., Hawaiʻi
6:30 PM
Welcome and Keynote Address
- Governor Cecilia Araneta Marcos, Ilocos Norte
6:45 PM
Sister State Reaffirmation Signing
7:00 PM
Remarks & Toast to Hawaiʻi IIocos Norte Friendship
- Consul General Arman R. Talbo
7:05 PM
Dinner
7:45 PM
Cultural Performance
8:30 PM
Closing Remarks
Gino S. (FCCH)