PrintCon, Print Philippines unite for first-ever joint trade show
The Philippine Printing Technical Foundation, Inc. (PPTF) and the Printing Industries Association of the Philippines (PIAP) have announced the merger of the country's two biggest printing industry events, PrintCon 2026 and Print Philippines 2026, into a single trade exhibition that organizers say aims to strengthen the local printing sector.
The unified event will be held from July 2 to 4, 2026, at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.
The partnership was formally announced during a media briefing at the Philippine Trade Training Center (PTTC), where industry leaders described the move as a milestone that would eliminate overlapping events, reduce costs, and maximize resources for exhibitors, buyers, and stakeholders.
"We are providing a stronger, more unified voice for printing professionals across the country," said PPTF President Dante E. Llarena. "We are here to spark conversations, strengthen our partnerships with the media, and generate the public awareness needed to truly drive our sector forward."
Under the collaboration, Print Philippines will oversee the exhibition component, including business-to-business networking, equipment demonstrations, and buyer engagement, while PPTF will lead the conference and educational programs focusing on technical training, innovation, and industry development.
A key feature of this year's event is its emphasis on artificial intelligence (AI) and digital transformation in the printing industry. Organizers said the conference will explore how AI can improve productivity, sustainability, and customized printing solutions while complementing, rather than replacing, human expertise.
Through a partnership with the PTTC–Global MSME Academy, the conference will introduce AI and digital certification programs designed to help industry professionals adapt to emerging technologies and future business demands.
The three-day event has also secured the participation of several government agencies, including the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Design Center of the Philippines, National Book Development Board (NBDB), TESDA, and SB Corp.
Creative organizations such as FHMoms, Googly Gooeys, Graphic Artists of the Philippines, and Komiket are likewise supporting the event, alongside major industry exhibitors including Ideal Marketing, UBIX Corporation, Canon, Epson, Norde, Gakken, and Heidelberg.
Marketing strategist Josiah Go is set to deliver the keynote address, discussing the evolving role of print in an increasingly digital and trust-driven marketplace.
Organizers said the event is open to printers, publishers, entrepreneurs, educators, designers, technologists, students, and other industry stakeholders seeking to explore new technologies, expand business opportunities, and strengthen collaboration within the Philippine printing industry.
Registration is now open for interested participants.