On August 15, 2025, JuanTax hosted JuanUp 2025: Level Up Your Accounting and Tax Experience at Whitespace Manila, drawing more than 700 accountants, auditors, SMEs, and entrepreneurs. The event served as a hub for learning and innovation, with industry leaders exploring how technology and mindset can reshape the business landscape.
One of the most anticipated sessions was the panel discussion on the topic:
“Why Beliefs—Not Just Tools—Are Holding Business Owners Back.”
Featuring top leaders in technology and entrepreneurship, the panel included:
- Dbennis Velasco, Founder and CEO of Prosperna
- Kim Lato, CEO of Kimstore
- Jojo Malolos, CEO of Paymongo
- Nick Torres, CEO of TYP Consulting
- Marvin Galang, Co-founder of JuanTax
The discussion highlighted not only the role of AI and technology but also the beliefs and mindsets entrepreneurs must embrace to unlock their full potential.
Prosperna’s Role at JuanUp 2025: Unlocking AI’s Value for SMEs
Representing Prosperna, Dennis Velasco emphasized the company’s mission to empower 1 million Philippine SMEs with an AI-powered eCommerce software complete with integrated payments and shipping solutions tailored to local needs.
Dennis shared one powerful word that captures the promise of AI: UNLOCK.
“In the Philippines alone, AI is going to unlock even more power for SMEs. ARTIFICIAL intelligence (AI) could inject as much as P1.8 trillion (about US$31 billion) into the Philippine economy over the next few years.”
He explained that the Prosperna AI eCommerce looks at AI in two ways:
- Internally – identifying which team members are fully onboard with change and transformation.
- Externally – recognizing that customers in the Philippines deserve better service and value. Businesses that embrace AI will not only operate more efficiently but also become more profitable and successful.
Other Leaders on Mindset and Innovation
Each panelist contributed a unique perspective on embracing the future of business with AI:
- Nick Torres, CEO of TYP Consulting, encouraged entrepreneurs to embrace and adapt to the transformation in technology, reminding them that adaptability is key to survival and growth.
- Jojo Malolos, CEO of Paymongo, highlighted the importance of understanding the true impact of what you’re doing, underscoring that business leaders must stay conscious of the value they deliver.
- Kim Lato, CEO of Kimstore stressed that leaders should see challenges as opportunities for growth and innovation. She shared how AI can serve as a co-partner—helping businesses boost efficiency and gather deeper business intelligence.
Driving Change Together
By combining real experiences and practical strategies, JuanUp 2025 inspired attendees to adopt new ways of thinking about business, technology, and growth. The conversations reinforced one clear message: with the right mindset and tools like the Prosperna AI eCommerce platform, Philippine SMEs can unlock their full potential.
Prosperna, Your Partner to eCommerce Success
Prosperna is an all-in-one AI-powered eCommerce platform for SMBs, entrepreneurs, and content creators. Our mission is to empower 1 million businesses with simple and affordable software powered by AI.
We’re so passionate about helping small businesses succeed that we’re giving you full access to our powerful tools for 14 days, absolutely free. No commitments—just pure growth for your store.

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