More than 33,000 participants gathered at the SMX Convention Center Manila for the International Pet Summit 2026, held on July 24–26. Organized by the PVDA Foundation, the event carried the theme ‘Innovating Companion Animal Health and Responsible Pet Care’.
PVDA Foundation Chairperson Edna Segismundo welcomes participants to the International Pet Summit 2026.
According to Corazon Occidental, PVDA Foundation President, the summit aimed to promote responsible ownership, advance animal health, and strengthen collaboration among veterinarians, industry leaders, government agencies, and welfare advocates.
Dr Corazon Occidental
“We wanted IPS to be both a business and educational platform,” she told nutriNews Asia. “Based on the strong participation and engagement, I believe we achieved these objectives very well.”
The event demonstrated the growing importance of the Philippine pet sector, with active engagement in scientific sessions and a bustling exhibition area.
Themes shaping the pet industry
Several themes dominated discussions: preventive healthcare, nutrition, responsible ownership, animal welfare, and professional development. These reflect the evolving expectations of Filipino pet owners, who increasingly view pets as family members.
“The challenge for our industry is not simply to grow,” Dr Occidental emphasized, “but to ensure that this growth is responsible, science-based, ethical, and sustainable.”
Educational sessions and exhibits drew strong interest, particularly in free vaccination booths, product showcases, and seminars on new technologies and diagnostics. The participation of animal whisperer Lester Zapanta highlighted the demand for practical, experience-based approaches to pet care.
IPS 2026 exceeded expectations, attracting veterinarians, students, entrepreneurs, suppliers, welfare advocates, and pet owners from Metro Manila and nearby provinces. The diversity of participants underscored the pet industry’s transformation into a broader ecosystem, where veterinary medicine, nutrition, technology, retail, and consumer education intersect.
Innovations and strengthened partnerships
The summit provided a platform for companies to introduce new developments in nutrition, diagnostics, preventive care, and wellness. Rather than focusing on single products, IPS highlighted the industry’s shift toward personalized, science-based, and technology-supported pet care. Greater emphasis is now placed on early diagnosis, wellness, and quality of life.
Collaborations were also strengthened. Partnerships with veterinary organizations, welfare groups, industry associations, and media partners extended the summit’s impact beyond the three-day event. Dr Occidental stressed that meaningful progress requires cooperation among all stakeholders.
Challenges faced and lessons learned
The summit’s popularity led to some overcrowding, a clear sign of strong public interest. Organizers managed the large turnout with teamwork, preparation, and flexibility, ensuring sessions and exhibits remained accessible. Participants praised the diversity of exhibitors and the rich educational content, reinforcing the event’s success.
For future editions, organizers plan to expand scientific sessions, international participation, and business-to-business opportunities. Dr Occidental noted that participants are seeking increasingly specialized and high-quality content, which will shape the summit’s next steps.
Pets as family and industry transformation
Perhaps the most important message of IPS 2026 was the changing role of pets in Filipino households. Pets are increasingly seen as companions and family members, creating greater responsibility for their health, nutrition, and welfare.
This shift is driving demand for better veterinary care, preventive services, and products that support longer, healthier lives. IPS reinforced its role as a platform for advancing animal welfare, veterinary standards, and sustainable practices. Through education, exhibits, and partnerships, the summit promoted responsible ownership and evidence-based care, positioning itself as a force for positive change in the Philippine pet industry.
The organizers and partners of the International Pet Summit 2026