Homegrown innovations took center stage during the recent Tech Week PH 2025 in Cebu, a gathering of over 1,000 business leaders, entrepreneurs, tech professionals, and students in the region. Organized by PLDT Enterprise, the corporate arm of leading integrated telco network, PLDT Inc., its first multi-city technology event explored transformative digital solutions reshaping the region's economic landscape.

Among the highlights was Cebu-based startup Xeleqt AI's pioneering IoT-enabled agentic service platform that automates processes in physical operations.

Xeleqt AI CEO & Co-Founder Norman Curato showcased their customizable, multi-protocol AI device that serves as the foundation of their Physical Operations Cloud network. "The system connects various physical assets, from vehicles and industrial equipment to workforce personnel, into a unified platform that delivers real-time insights and operational efficiencies," Curato explained.

Recognized as one of the Philippines’ most promising startups, Xeleqt AI emerged as the grand winner of the Start-up Innovation Challenge at PH Digicon 2023 VISION: Reimagine Tomorrow’s Enterprise. The competition highlighted startups that are driving technological breakthroughs to solve real-world challenges. Xeleqt AI’s innovative solutions have already made a measurable impact on businesses, from detecting fuel pilferage to streamlining operations and reducing inefficiencies, directly improving the bottom line.

Also on the panel was Erika Dell Sancho, CEO of Mata Technologies, who discussed how technology is shaping business, and highlighted the importance of women empowerment in tech and innovation.

The Cebu-based startup's success story aligns perfectly with Tech Week PH's mission to accelerate digital transformation across the Philippines, particularly in regions outside Metro Manila.

“Tech Week PH is about bringing innovation closer to where it matters most—our local enterprises and communities,” said Mitch Locsin, First Vice President and Head of Enterprise Core Business, PLDT and Smart. “Startups like Xeleqt AI and Mata Technologies exemplify the kind of forward-thinking solutions that are transforming industries and uplifting regional economies. We’re proud to spotlight homegrown innovations that have the potential to scale nationally and globally.”

Cebu, contributing P411.32 billion to the country's GDP, has established itself as a leader in BPO, manufacturing, tourism, and now, a rapidly growing digital economy.

Tech Week PH in Cebu explored various practical implementations of AI, advanced connectivity solutions including 5G, cloud computing, and cybersecurity—all critical enablers for success in the digital economy.

Tech Week PH 2025 is powered by Cisco, Alibaba Cloud, CSG, Ericsson, Fortinet, Huawei, Avolution, Fibercom Telecom, Canon, Delinea, Dream, Hikvision, Kital Connect, Pronet, Quanta Dance, Soprano, and Trend Micro.