NEW strengthens global ties during Japan visit
The Network for Enterprising Women (NEW), a Manila-based organization of women entrepreneurs, visited Tokyo from March 18 to 20, 2026, in celebration of its 20th anniversary. This year also marks the 70th anniversary of the Japan–Philippines Friendship Year with the theme “Weaving the Future Together: Peace, Prosperity, Possibilities.”
NEW went to celebrate these two milestone events during Women’s Month. The delegation was composed of chair and founder Myren Garcia, president Ella Santos-Sol, vice president Aiet dela Torre, secretary Margo Crame, and a valued member, Michelle Moreno. The activities were a mix of business engagements, cultural immersion, and networking opportunities.
The NEW officers and members’ itinerary was curated around business engagements and cultural immersion. One of the highlights of the trip was a formal courtesy call at the Philippine Embassy in Roppongi with chargé d’affaires, Christian “Kit” de Jesus. Representing the women micro, small, and medium enterprises (WMSMEs), we reaffirmed that NEW is committed to supporting Filipino products and to being proactive in penetrating the global market.
Dressed in elegant Filipiniana attire made by the brand Nuevo Ystilo, the delegation proudly represented Filipino heritage. They wore binakul blazers, which are handwoven textiles by the artisans of the Ilocos region. It set the tone for the day that honored both identity and global ambition. This was followed by a commemorative 20th-anniversary lunch at Azabudai Hills mall, marking two decades of empowering women in business. During lunch, discussions were held on how we can represent the women’s business sector in the Asean hosting of the Philippines this year.
The group also explored Tokyo’s vibrant culinary scene through a gyoza restaurant tour in Shinjuku. The Japanese “izakaya” food chain aims to set up its franchise in the Philippines and neighboring countries.
In the evening, NEW participated in a networking session hosted by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Japan led by their chair, Allan Reyes. The event was held at the Philippine Embassy, where both organizations introduced their activities in their respective countries. There were equal numbers of Filipinos and Japanese who attended, providing a platform for meaningful dialogue between Filipino entrepreneurs based in Japan, Japanese members of the chamber, and NEW members from the Philippines. The discussions centered on potential collaborations, market expansion, and shared business insights, reinforcing the value of global Filipino networks.
The following day featured a more relaxed yet equally enriching program, a trip to different real estate properties around Tokyo. Afterward, we went to the Suntory Brewery in Musashino, which is a two-hour drive outside Tokyo. The members gained insights into Japanese precision on operational excellence. It showcased how Japanese practice kaizen and poka-yoke, which means continuous improvement and mistake-proofing.
The trip concluded with a visit to Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden during the cherry blossom season—a symbolic moment reflecting growth, renewal, and new beginnings.
This trip was not only a celebration of our 20th year but a reminder of how far we can go when we build meaningful connections beyond borders. We left Tokyo inspired, energized, and committed to creating more opportunities for women entrepreneurs. As NEW continues its mission of empowering WMSMEs, our visit to Tokyo stands as a testament to the organization’s evolving role in shaping globally competitive Filipina entrepreneurs.
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Ella Santos-Sol is a Manila-based entrepreneur and current president of NEW, an organization that leads initiatives empowering women entrepreneurs through mentorship and strategic partnerships. She is the founder of Nuevo Ystilo, a modern Filipiniana brand that advocates slow fashion and promotes Philippine craftsmanship and artistry.
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Women Who Lead is an initiative of PhilWEN.
