BET Expo 2026 Showcases the Technologies Shaping the Future of the Built Environment

The Built Environment Technology (BET) Expo 2026 marked a milestone for the Philippine HVAC&R and building industry as the country's first dedicated exhibition showcasing technologies and solutions transforming the built environment.

Organized by the ASHRAE Philippines Chapter, the inaugural BET Expo was held on August 14, 2026, at the Marriott Grand Ballroom, Newport World Resorts, Manila, alongside the ASHRAE Region XIII Chapters Regional Conference 2026.

Envisioned as an annual flagship event, BET Expo created a new platform connecting manufacturers, suppliers, technology providers, consultants, contractors, developers, facility managers, government agencies, academic institutions, and building professionals.

Guided by the CRC 2026 theme, “Resilient by Design: Technology-Driven Buildings for a Changing Climate,” and complementing the ASHRAE Society Theme 2026–2027, “Changing the Game: Retrofitting for Resilience,” the expo highlighted the role of innovation and technology in creating smarter, healthier, more efficient, and resilient buildings.

Exploring the Latest Building Technologies

The exhibition floor featured a diverse range of solutions spanning HVAC&R, smart buildings, building automation and controls, energy management, indoor environmental quality, refrigeration, fire and life safety, sustainable construction, digital engineering, and next-generation building systems.

Participating exhibitors included Concepcion Carrier Airconditioning Company, Desiccant Rotors International (Bry-Air), Ebara Pumps Philippines Inc., Daikin Airconditioning Philippines Inc., Supreme Steel Pipe Corporation, Photonergy Inc., Halton Inc., Igros Marketing Inc., Systemair HVAC Sdn Bhd., Camfil Malaysia Sdn Bhd., Mesan Cooling Tower Ltd., Samsung Electronics Philippines Corporation, Hisense HVAC Philippines, Philippine Insulation Company Inc., Intech Group Innovations Corp., and Yek Yeu Merchandising Inc.

Through product exhibits and technology demonstrations, attendees were able to engage directly with companies and explore solutions applicable to the changing needs of the Philippine building industry.

Technical Program

Beyond the exhibition floor, BET Expo featured a comprehensive technical program organized into three major tracks: IAQ, Efficiency & Decarbonization; AI in HVAC and Data Center; and Refrigeration, Innovation & Retrofitting for Resilience.

IAQ, Efficiency & Decarbonization

The first track examined strategies for improving indoor environmental quality, energy efficiency, and decarbonization. Topics included Dedicated Outdoor Air Systems, industrial HVAC design and energy conservation, smart airflow control, sustainable infrastructure, urban microclimates, green and zero-carbon building certification, water-energy systems, smart building management, filter performance, and AHU retrofit and replacement.

The sessions brought together perspectives from industry and academia, emphasizing the importance of integrated approaches to improving building performance while addressing energy consumption, carbon reduction, and occupant well-being.

AI in HVAC and Data Center

The AI in HVAC and Data Center track focused on emerging technologies and the rapidly increasing thermal demands associated with artificial intelligence and high-performance computing.

Sessions covered digital twins and artificial intelligence for real-time HVAC monitoring and control, energy management, oil-free chillers, AMCA certification, data center thermal infrastructure, AI-ready data centers, and the future of HVAC for AI-driven facilities.

The discussions highlighted the growing role of advanced cooling, monitoring, and control strategies as data centers adapt to increasingly demanding AI workloads.

Refrigeration, Innovation & Retrofitting for Resilience

The final track addressed topics ranging from refrigerated facility design and industrial refrigeration to retrofit planning, solar applications for cold storage, low-GWP refrigerants, compressor reliability, ACMV installation regulations, commercial kitchen ventilation, sustainability, and indoor air quality for occupational safety and health.

The sessions provided practical perspectives on improving system efficiency, reliability, and resilience while supporting the industry's transition toward more sustainable technologies and practices.

Creating Opportunities for Careers and Membership

BET Expo also extended beyond technology and technical learning by creating opportunities for professional development.

A Job Fair was held during the expo, connecting job seekers and building professionals with participating exhibitors that had available employment opportunities. Attendees were encouraged to submit their resumes, which were collected for distribution to exhibitors with job openings.

The ASHRAE Philippines Membership Promotion Booth was also available throughout the event, allowing attendees to learn more about ASHRAE, connect with Chapter representatives, and complete their membership on the spot.

These initiatives strengthened BET Expo's role not only as an industry exhibition, but also as a platform for career development, professional networking, and engagement with the wider ASHRAE community.

Building the Future Together

As the first edition of what is envisioned to become an annual event, BET Expo 2026 established a new platform for innovation, knowledge-sharing, industry collaboration, and professional engagement in the Philippines.

By bringing together technology providers and the professionals responsible for designing, constructing, operating, and maintaining buildings, the expo created opportunities to connect emerging solutions with real-world industry needs.

From HVAC&R and energy management to artificial intelligence, data centers, refrigeration, indoor environmental quality, and resilient retrofitting, BET Expo demonstrated the breadth of innovation shaping the built environment.

The inaugural event laid the foundation for future BET Expos and reinforced the importance of collaboration in creating smarter, healthier, more efficient, and resilient buildings for the future.

ASHRAE Region XIII CRC 2026 Brings Chapters Together in the Philippines

The 2026 Chapters Regional Conference (CRC) brought together ASHRAE members, chapter leaders, students, volunteers, and industry professionals from across Region XIII for two days of technical learning, leadership development, collaboration, and fellowship. Hosted by the ASHRAE Philippines Chapter on August 14–15, 2026, at the Marriott Manila Newport World Resorts in Pasay City, Philippines, the conference carried the theme “Resilient by Design: Technology-Driven Buildings for a Changing Climate.”

The conference provided a regional platform for chapters to exchange knowledge, share experiences, strengthen chapter operations, and build connections across borders. Participating chapters from across Region XIII contributed to a diverse gathering that reflected the breadth of ASHRAE's professional community in the region.

Day 0: Region XIII Fun Golf

The CRC activities began on August 13 with the Region XIII Fun Golf, bringing together delegates for an afternoon of friendly competition and fellowship. With nine flights participating, the event offered an informal opportunity for members from different chapters to meet and reconnect before the formal conference.

Despite the rainy weather and muddy course conditions, participants continued to enjoy the game and camaraderie. The experience captured the relaxed and welcoming spirit of the CRC and provided an early opportunity for delegates to build friendships.

“Even though it is rainy, it is muddy, but it is fun.”

— Herlin Herlianika, ASHRAE Region XIII Electronic Communications Regional Chair

Congratulations to all the winners and participants of the Region XIII Fun Golf!

Day 0: Welcome Reception

Following the golf activities, delegates gathered for the CRC Welcome Reception, officially welcoming participants from across Region XIII to the Philippines. The evening featured welcome messages from DRC Ong Ching Loon, CRC General Chair Edwin Raganit, ASHRAE Philippines Chapter President Mark Lester Salvador, and ASHRAE President Sarah E. Maston.

Birthday celebrants were also recognized during the evening, adding a personal and celebratory element to the gathering. Beyond welcoming delegates, the reception created an opportunity for members to meet, reconnect, and establish friendships before the formal conference began.

“This gives us the opportunity to connect, learn and build friendships before the conference starts.”

— Mark Lester Salvador, ASHRAE Philippines Chapter President

The warm reception was also reflected in the comments of Lucas Lam from the Macau Chapter, who shared that the experience was “much more than we ever expected,” particularly highlighting the hotel and venue.

Day 1: Opening the Conference

The first official day of CRC 2026 brought together Society leadership, Region XIII officers, chapter delegates, students, and industry professionals for a full program of technical and leadership activities.

During the Presidential Luncheon, ASHRAE President Sarah E. Maston formally opened the CRC and shared her personal journey within ASHRAE and the inspiration behind the Society Year theme, “Changing the Game: Retrofitting for Resilience.”

Drawing from her passion for sports, President Maston connected the spirit of sports with ASHRAE's work, emphasizing adaptability, teamwork, and the willingness to approach challenges differently. A symbolic soccer moment with VP Blake Ellis added an energetic touch to the opening and brought the sports-inspired theme to life.

Technical Sessions

Technical learning remained a central component of CRC 2026, with experts sharing perspectives on critical HVAC&R topics.

Tropical Refrigeration System Design and Application Guidelines

Cesar Luis dL. Lim, PME, MBA, FASHRAE

The session explored considerations in the design and application of refrigeration systems in tropical environments. The discussion provided delegates with technical perspectives relevant to the climatic conditions experienced across much of Region XIII.

HVAC Systems Design for Airborne Infection Control Spaces in Healthcare Facilities

Wei Sun, P.E.

The session examined HVAC design considerations for healthcare environments where airborne infection control is a priority. It highlighted the importance of appropriate ventilation and system design in supporting controlled indoor environments and safer healthcare facilities.

Thermal Energy Storage in the Era of Sustainability

William P. Bahnfleth, Ph.D., P.E.

The session explored the role of thermal energy storage in sustainable building energy systems. The discussion highlighted opportunities to improve energy management and support more flexible and resilient building operations.

Student Sessions

The CRC also provided a dedicated platform for students to engage with industry practitioners, Society leadership, and fellow ASHRAE members.

Arch. Alfredo “Freddy” Bautista, UAP, GREEEN ADP, GREEN AP presented Green Retrofit: How Existing Buildings Can Become Resilient, Efficient and Future-Ready, introducing students to approaches for improving existing buildings through green retrofitting.

Engr. Dennis Alejandro, PE, LEED AP discussed HVAC-R Challenges in the Era of Global Warming, highlighting the evolving challenges facing HVAC&R professionals and the need for efficient, sustainable, and resilient solutions.

ASHRAE President Sarah E. Maston also presented the Society's 2026–2027 theme, Changing the Game: Retrofitting for Resilience, encouraging students to embrace adaptability and innovation.

The student program also featured Engr. Lyka Kryzjielle M. Mauban, who presented her ASHRAE Thesis Equipment Grant Report, and Dr. Manuel Belino, who discussed the K–12 Programs of the ASHRAE Philippines Chapter, highlighting opportunities to encourage younger generations to explore engineering and STEM.

Leadership and Committee Collaboration

Beyond the technical program, the CRC provided opportunities for chapter leaders and delegates to discuss regional initiatives and chapter development.

Business Session 1 featured regional updates, including an introduction to ASHRAE 360 by Blake Ellis and discussions on fundraising and Research Promotion led by Kirstin Pilot. Business Session 2 and the CRC Review Meeting later provided opportunities for delegates to reflect on the conference and discuss continued chapter development.

The second day featured committee workshops covering Research Promotion, CTTC, EC&W, YEA, Membership Promotion, Student Activities, Government Affairs, Refrigeration, Treasurer, and Chapter Operations and PAOE. These workshops encouraged representatives from different chapters to exchange experiences, share practices, and strengthen collaboration throughout Region XIII.

Women in ASHRAE

The Women in ASHRAE session provided a more informal setting for women members to meet, introduce themselves, and share experiences within the Society. The conversational format encouraged connection and relationship-building among women from different chapters and professional backgrounds, with support and participation from members across the organization.

Industry Roundtable and Banquet Dinner

The Industry Roundtable Discussion brought delegates and industry professionals together to exchange perspectives on current developments, challenges, and opportunities within the HVAC&R field.

The day concluded with the CRC Banquet Dinner, bringing together delegates, students, chapter leaders, and industry professionals for an evening of celebration and fellowship. Students from participating chapters took part in a friendly performance competition, with the South Korea Chapter students emerging as winners after presenting original ASHRAE-themed lyrics inspired by familiar songs and incorporating references to ASHRAE standards.

“We are not simply designing how buildings work; we are shaping how people will live, work and thrive. This is why gatherings like CRC matter.”

— Edwin Raganit, CRC General Chair

Recognition and Closing

CRC 2026 concluded with the Host Chapter Luncheon, Chapter Operations and PAOE Workshop, Business Session 2, and the CRC Review Meeting. The closing activities provided an opportunity to reflect on the conference and recognize the dedication of ASHRAE members, officers, and volunteers.

DRC Ong Ching Loon emphasized the importance of recognizing members, officers, and volunteers who have upheld ASHRAE's core values and contributed to the Society over the years.

The symbolic signing and exchange of a soccer ball and shirt among chapter delegates served as a fitting representation of the friendships and connections formed throughout the conference.

CRC 2026 ultimately demonstrated that regional collaboration extends beyond technical knowledge. It is built through shared experiences, open exchange, friendship, and a collective commitment to advancing the HVAC&R profession and the built environment.

Changing the Game: Retrofitting for Resilience

2026–2027 Society Theme of ASHRAE President Sarah E. Maston

As the built environment faces a rapidly changing world, the need to rethink how buildings are designed, operated, and renewed has never been more important. For the 2026–2027 Society Year, ASHRAE President Sarah E. Maston calls on the industry to embrace a forward-looking approach through the theme “Changing the Game: Retrofitting for Resilience.”

The theme recognizes that creating a resilient built environment does not always mean starting from the ground up. Across communities around the world, countless existing buildings represent an opportunity to improve performance, strengthen adaptability, and extend service life. Through thoughtful retrofitting, these buildings can respond to evolving environmental conditions, technological advancements, energy demands, and the changing needs of their occupants.

Retrofitting as a Path to Resilience

Retrofitting goes beyond simply replacing outdated equipment or improving individual building systems. It presents an opportunity to take a holistic look at how buildings perform and how they can continue to serve their occupants in an uncertain future.

From upgrading HVAC systems and improving energy efficiency to integrating smart controls, enhancing indoor environmental quality, and preparing buildings for extreme weather and changing operating conditions, retrofit strategies can transform existing facilities into more efficient, adaptable, and resilient spaces.

For the HVAC&R community, this challenge presents both a responsibility and an opportunity. Engineers and building professionals play a critical role in identifying practical interventions that balance energy performance, occupant comfort, system reliability, cost, and long-term resilience.

Changing the Game in the Philippines

In the Philippines, the importance of resilient buildings is particularly significant. Buildings operate in an environment shaped by tropical conditions, extreme heat, typhoons, flooding, evolving energy demands, and increasing expectations for efficiency and occupant well-being.

Many of the country's existing buildings were designed under conditions and standards that differ from today's challenges. Retrofitting provides a pathway to address these gaps while preserving valuable existing infrastructure.

This calls for collaboration across the built environment: from engineers and architects to contractors, facility managers, owners, manufacturers, policymakers, and other industry stakeholders. By working together, the industry can develop retrofit solutions that are technically sound, economically viable, and responsive to local conditions.

From Existing Buildings to Future-Ready Spaces

“Changing the Game: Retrofitting for Resilience” encourages the industry to look at existing buildings not as limitations, but as opportunities.

Every retrofit can be a step toward reducing energy consumption, improving system performance, strengthening resilience, and creating healthier indoor environments. More importantly, successful retrofits can demonstrate how the buildings we already have can be adapted to meet the demands of the future.

As ASHRAE continues to advance heating, ventilation, air conditioning, refrigeration, and building performance, the 2026–2027 Society Theme challenges its members and the broader industry to think beyond conventional solutions and embrace innovation where it matters most.

Changing the game means looking at what already exists, understanding what the future demands, and taking action today to build greater resilience for tomorrow.

Through “Changing the Game: Retrofitting for Resilience,” ASHRAE Philippines joins the global ASHRAE community in advancing a more resilient, sustainable, and future-ready built environment: one retrofit at a time.

ASHRAE Philippines Chapter Welcomes the 2026–2027 Society Year

The ASHRAE Philippines Chapter officially welcomed the 2026–2027 Society Year through its Induction and Turnover Ceremony, marking not only the transition of leadership but also the beginning of a new chapter of service, collaboration, and growth.

The ceremony brought together ASHRAE members, officers, volunteers, industry partners, and guests to celebrate the accomplishments of the previous Society Year and welcome the new leadership team as it takes on the responsibility of guiding the Chapter forward.

Honoring a Year of Service

The ceremony honored the contributions of the outgoing leadership under Immediate Past President Benedicto S. Buenaventura, whose term saw the Chapter deliver a wide range of professional, technical, community, and leadership initiatives.

Among the highlights of the past Society Year were the 13-Phase HVAC Design Boot Camp Seminar Series, Scholarship Program, TESDA partnership, and the “What’s in it for Me” Programme, alongside other initiatives that strengthened the Chapter's engagement with professionals, students, and the wider industry.

In his message, Immediate Past President Buenaventura expressed his appreciation to the members, volunteers, partners, and supporters who contributed to the Chapter's accomplishments throughout the past Society Year.

“Thank you for your support this past Society Year.”

— Immediate Past President Benedicto S. Buenaventura

The turnover therefore represented more than the conclusion of a Society Year. It recognized the collective effort behind the Chapter's programs and the foundation that the outgoing leadership leaves for the team that follows.

A New Leadership Team Takes the Helm

The new Society Year now begins under the leadership of President Mark Lester Salvador, who emphasized that assuming office represents more than simply taking on a new position. It is a commitment to continue the work of previous leaders while finding new ways to serve the Chapter and its members.

As ASHRAE Region XIII Director Regional Chair Ong Ching Loon reminded the Chapter during the ceremony:

“It is not so much about the ceremony itself, but the beginning of taking over the responsibilities of the previous officers.”

The message underscored the continuity of leadership within ASHRAE, where each Society Year builds upon the work, relationships, and initiatives established by those who came before.

President-Elect Mildred Tuazon likewise highlighted the Chapter's commitment to collaboration and impact, calling on the organization to:

“Strengthen partnerships and truly change the game by building a healthier and more sustainable, resilient Philippines.”

Her message reflects the Chapter's continued focus on building stronger relationships with industry, government, academia, and the broader professional community.

Changing the Game for a Resilient Future

The new leadership enters Society Year 2026–2027 under the Society theme “Changing the Game: Retrofitting for Resilience.” The theme provides a timely direction for the Chapter as the built environment continues to respond to changing environmental conditions, technological developments, and increasing demands for energy efficiency and resilience.

For ASHRAE Philippines, the new Society Year will focus on several key priorities, including strengthening membership and YEA, advancing technical excellence, deepening government and industry partnerships, building financial sustainability, expanding regional and global visibility, and strengthening governance and leadership continuity.

These priorities aim to further develop the Chapter as a platform for technical learning, professional growth, industry engagement, and meaningful service.

Building a Stronger ASHRAE Philippines

For President Salvador, the new Society Year is ultimately about creating something that will continue beyond the current leadership term.

“Our goal this year is not to simply have a successful term. Our goal is to leave behind a stronger ASHRAE Philippines than the one we inherited, because that is how great organizations endure.”

— President Mark Lester Salvador

The statement captures the broader responsibility of Chapter leadership: to not only deliver programs during a single Society Year, but to strengthen the organization for future officers, members, and generations of ASHRAE professionals.

Through continued technical education, professional development, membership engagement, industry collaboration, and leadership development, the Chapter seeks to create programs and opportunities that have a lasting impact.

Looking Ahead

The Induction and Turnover Ceremony served not simply as a celebration of leadership, but as a reminder of the continuity at the heart of ASHRAE.

Every Society Year builds upon the work of those who came before and lays the foundation for those who follow. As the ASHRAE Philippines Chapter begins 2026–2027, the new leadership carries forward the accomplishments of the previous administration while embracing new opportunities to serve, collaborate, and innovate.

Guided by “Changing the Game: Retrofitting for Resilience,” the Chapter looks forward to a Society Year defined by stronger partnerships, greater technical engagement, meaningful professional opportunities, and continued commitment to a healthier, more sustainable, and resilient Philippines.

ASHRAE Philippines Chapter held its last monthly meeting for Society Year 2025-2026 last June 03, 2026 at Zippelin Lounge, Pasig City

ASHRAE Philippines Chapter held its Monthly Meeting (CMM) last May 06, 2026 at ANAKO Office, Quezon City

On April 14, 2026, ASHRAE Philippines and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) formalized a strategic partnership through a Memorandum of Agreement to advance technical education and workforce development in the HVAC/R sector.

The signing followed a productive meeting with TESDA NCR Regional Director Angelina M. Carreon, attended by ASHRAE Philippines President Benedicto S. Buenaventura, Government Affairs Chair Mildred Tuazon, and Government Affairs member Marvi Jequinto. 

The discussion focused on aligning industry and government efforts to strengthen skills development in the country.

A key outcome of the engagement is the recognition of HVAC as a priority area for TESDA, alongside several initiatives aimed at improving training, certification, and industry relevance. This includes strengthening upskilling and reskilling programs, integrating current technologies, and ensuring that training standards are aligned with real-world industry demands.

Under the agreement, TESDA will lead training, assessment, and certification efforts, while ASHRAE will support through technical expertise, curriculum development, and industry alignment. A Technical Working Group will be established to ensure focused execution and sustained collaboration.

This partnership marks a decisive step toward building a stronger, more competitive HVAC workforce in the Philippines, driven by closer coordination between industry leaders and government institutions.