The Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) is conducting a roadshow in Laguna on Friday as part of its efforts to lure more investors and perk up business in the bourse. This is the PSE's first local roadshow for 2009 since the financial turmoil hit world markets last year.

The PSE has obtained the support of local brokers First Metro Securities Brokerage Corp., Regina Capital Development Corp. as well as information vendor Technistock Philippines Inc. to hold a free stock market seminar at the main function room of El Cielito Inn in Sta. Rosa, Laguna, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on March 27.

The seminar aims to educate prospective investors on managing their finances well especially during challenging times.

Friday's session is part of the exchange's provincial roadshow project for the whole year.

"At this time, when we face a global economic slowdown, the need to teach Filipinos on how to properly manage their finances and wisely invest their hard-earned money has become even more urgent," said PSE president and chief executive Francis Lim.

"During tough times, it is of great importance to keep focused on financial goals, smart spending and wise investing," he added.

Some of the experts who will share their expertise on stock market investing are Leo Quinitio, head of the Market Education Department; Joey Vilar, head of the Marketing Services Department; Jay Peñaflor, senior specialist and local roadshows project head; Martin Santos, research specialist at First Metro Securities; and Marita Limlingan, president of Regina Capital.

The speakers will tackle, among others, an overview of the PSE, stock market investing, listing in the PSE, online stock trading and mutual funds.

The PSE is organizing a team to conduct similar briefings in the cities of Davao, Cebu, and Tarlac within the first half this year.

During the past three years, the bourse has intensified efforts to encourage more investors to enter the market through provincial roadshows.

In 2008, it conducted seminars in Pampanga, Tacloban, Baguio, Bacolod, Iloilo, Cagayan De Oro and Iligan. It likewise met with potential local investors in Dagupan, Laoag, Cebu, Baguio, Cagayan Valley, Davao, General Santos and Iloilo in 2007.

In 2006, it held roadshows in Baguio, Cebu, Davao, and Batangas.