On February 11, 2026, at SPACE at One Ayala, leaders, entrepreneurs, creatives, and aspiring professionals gathered not merely for a conference, but for a recalibration.
SpeakersCon 2026 carried a bold theme: “Redefining Authenticity.” In a world increasingly shaped by automation, artificial intelligence, and digital acceleration, the event asked a timely question: What does it mean to communicate responsibly today?
Over 1,500+ creators, entrepreneurs, and leaders gathered, onsite and online, making SpeakersCon 2026 one of the most significant communication and leadership gatherings of the year.
From the moment the doors opened and the program formally began, it was clear this was not designed to be a hype-driven gathering.
It was a deliberate, carefully structured experience centered on clarity, credibility, and human connection.
Setting the Tone: Leadership Rooted in Credibility
The day opened with reflection and purpose, grounding the event in shared values of responsibility and growth.
Francis Kong welcomed the audience with his steady and trusted presence, reminding leaders that strong brands are not built on noise, but on trust.
His sessions on Effective Communication for Brand Building and later Personal Branding for Success framed the entire conference: leadership is built through consistent character and disciplined communication.
A message from Senator Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV reinforced the importance of integrity in public leadership, bridging governance and business in a time when communication shapes public trust.
From Digital Voice to Authentic Presence
As the morning progressed, the spotlight shifted to digital communication and influence.
Ms. Inka Magnaye spoke on building presence in the digital space, not through performance, but through responsibility.
She captured the heart of her message in one defining line:
“When we speak truthfully and responsibly, we create not just influence, but credibility, direction, and a lasting connection to ourselves and others.”
Her message resonated deeply in a digital landscape where attention is easy to gain, but trust is not.
AI as Partner, Not Replacement
The conversation then moved into the future of business and innovation.
Ms. Ida Tiongson delivered a forward-looking perspective on AI-powered partnerships. Rather than framing technology as something to fear, she presented it as an amplifier of human vision: “Turn your ideas into reality and reach not just your local market, but the global stage. Your creativity knows no bounds in the digital world. AI is a powerful partner.”
Her message reframed artificial intelligence as a collaborator, one that expands possibility when guided by ethical leadership.
Protecting Trust in a Digital Age
If innovation opens doors, cybersecurity protects them.
Mr. Alan Reyes addressed one of the most urgent conversations of the day: digital risk.
In an era where reputations can be compromised instantly, he delivered a sobering but necessary reminder:
“Protecting digital identity therefore becomes an act of leadership in an age where trust can easily be weaponized.”
His session underscored that security is not merely a technical function, it is a leadership responsibility.
Humanity as Competitive Advantage
The afternoon session elevated the global conversation.
International marketing futurist Mr. Mark Schaefer challenged attendees to become more human—not more automated—in an AI-shaped world.
His keynote reinforced a recurring theme of the conference: differentiation comes from emotional courage and authenticity.
Dr. Donald Patrick Lim followed with insights on public leadership in the digital age, emphasizing that visibility now demands discipline and clarity.
Ms. Kia Abrera then brought science into the conversation, blending neuroscience and marketing to explain why empathy remains the foundation of connection.
Her most quoted line of the day captured the event’s thesis perfectly: “We do not speak to algorithms or platforms; we speak to human minds.”
It was a powerful reminder that behind every metric and dashboard is a person.
Humor, Heart, and Sincere Intentions
Eri Neeman energized the room with humor and sharp insight. But beyond the laughter was a message grounded in intention.
He reminded participants that connection begins internally:
“If you want to connect to people better when you speak, truly have the heart and intentions of wanting to help and provide value for them.”
In a world often driven by visibility and performance, his message cut through: sincerity builds influence that lasts.
Powered by Purpose-Driven Partnerships
SpeakersCon 2026 was made possible through the collaboration of organizations that believe in leadership, business growth, and meaningful communication.
Key Partners supporting the conference include Finest Media PH, JCI Makati, BroHouse, Cloud Studio, Ticketoc, Krinel Escalona, Success Option Inc, Tecknowlegies, GLPS Co., SPACE at One Ayala, Negosyo Toolkit, and PAEC.
Serving as Co-Presenter and Diamond Partner is PDD Apparel, whose support plays a key role in advancing the conference’s vision.
Platinum Partners include BurnBox, Luneta Advertising, Lakambini Events, Globaltronics, and Town’s Delight Catering and Events.
Gold Partners supporting the event are Nyxsys, AF Homes, Sirbri Group, Futech, and SineHaraya.
Silver Partners include Waters Philippines, Jac & Astrid Travel and Tours, Manila On Time, NextWave, Kevin Schwantz Makeup Artistry, KSF Group, Homefort, and Ecoplus.
The conference is further amplified by its Media Partners, including Philstar, NEN Digital, Chinoy TV, Tag Media, Manila Standard, Dyaryo Milenyo, Business Mirror, Philippine Graphics, CBN Asia, Entrepiknows, PinchLink Media, Malaya Business Insight, LionHeart TV, When In Manila.com, CE TV, Aliw Broadcasting, Asian journal, Kwento Co, Vritimes, 97.9 Home Radio, Balikbayan Magazine, Chinese Journal, Amazing Journal, The Market Monitor, TNC, and Arsys Media.
Strengthening community engagement are Community Partners such as BNI Philippines, PH Business Network, JCI Philippines, Freedom Talk Global, Filipina Women in Business, COG Project Management Team, WSAP – Wedding Suppliers Association of the Philippines, and PhilSME Business Network.
A Defining Moment for Communication in 2026
As the day closed with reflection, gratitude, and a symbolic group photo, one truth stood firm:
Authenticity isn’t about perfection. It’s about being real.
SpeakersCon 2026 reminded leaders that communication is not about chasing algorithms, it’s about earning trust.
And when leaders speak from a place of clarity, intention, and responsibility, their voice does more than influence.
It lasts.
This press release has also been published on VRITIMES
