PTIC New York Connects U.S. and Philippine Trade Leaders at Impact Social

NEW YORK CITY - Top business leaders, investors, and entrepreneurs from across the U.S. Northeast and Midwest converged at the Philippine Center in Manhattan on December 17 as the Philippine Trade and Investment Center–New York (PTIC New York) hosted Impact Social: A Year-End Networking Mixer, an event aimed at strengthening trade, investment, and cross-sector partnerships between the United States and the Philippines.

Organized in collaboration with Planet X Studios and The Black 6 Project, the event brought together industry leaders, investors, entrepreneurs, professionals, and business partners from the U.S. Northeast and Midwest. The gathering created a space for meaningful dialogue, collaboration, and relationship-building among both Filipino and non-Filipino communities.

Planet X Studios, a 14,000-square-foot, full-service film and multimedia production facility in Brooklyn, is co-owned by Filipino American entrepreneur Mike Ang. The company serves as the U.S. agency for Tanduay Rum, leading sales and marketing initiatives for the brand, including securing major NBA sponsorships with the Golden State Warriors and the Brooklyn Nets.

The Black 6 Project, the nonprofit organization behind The Black 6 Coffee, was co-founded by Joe Zoleta, a paramedic and U.S. Marine Corps veteran. The organization focuses on providing aid and support to communities in need around the world.

In her opening remarks, PTIC New York Trade Commissioner Alma Argayoso thanked partners and stakeholders for their continued support of PTIC New York’s trade and investment initiatives. She also highlighted key business opportunities in the Philippines, citing rapidly growing industries that present strong prospects for collaboration and investment.

Looking ahead to 2026, PTIC New York announced plans to roll out a robust lineup of programs, including business missions, trade fairs, and other trade- and investment-promoting activities aimed at further strengthening U.S.–Philippines economic ties.

The evening’s highlight was an open networking session, complemented by beverages sponsored by Planet X and Tierra de Ensueño Tequila, as well as specialty coffee from The Black 6 Coffee. The event concluded with a raffle featuring various giveaways, bringing the year-end gathering to a festive close.