The Philippines, under the leadership of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) – Bureau of International Trade Relations Director and Senior Economic Official (SEOM) Chairperson, Ms. Marie Sherylyn D. Aquia, successfully convened the ASEAN Senior Economic Officials’ Meeting (SEOM) Retreat in Boracay, Aklan. This landmark two-day event marks the official start of the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairship in 2026, garnering strong support and active participation from all ASEAN Member States.
The Retreat served as a strategic platform to review recent high-level decisions and lay the groundwork for the year ahead, which is pivotal as 2026 marks the first year of the implementation of the ASEAN Community Vision 2040 and the ASEAN Economic Community Strategic Plan 2026–2030.
Key discussions focused on:
ASEAN’s post-2025 economic direction.
External economic relations and regional trade initiatives for 2026.
Advancing regional digital integration and competitiveness.
ASEAN’s internal strategy for global value chains.
A significant highlight was the detailed discussion on the Philippines’ Priority Economic Deliverables (PEDs) for 2026. These PEDs are designed to translate the ASEAN Community Vision into tangible, on-the-ground actions, underscoring the commitment to:
Respond effectively to regional needs.
Support inclusive economic growth.
Deliver concrete benefits to ASEAN Member States and their peoples.
The Retreat also had the historic significance of being the first SEOM meeting with Timor-Leste participating as ASEAN’s newest Member State. This underscores ASEAN’s commitment to expanding its membership and fostering inclusive regional integration across Southeast Asia.
Beyond the formal sessions, the hosting of the SEOM Retreat delivered immediate and tangible benefits to the local economy of Boracay, boosting demand for tourism services, transport, accommodations, and local enterprises.
The event proudly championed the Philippines’ vibrant creative and cultural strengths through:
Cultural Performances: Featuring artists such as Jeffrey Hidalgo and the Nightingales singing duo, the Ati-atihan fire dancers, and the Boracay National High School Folk Dance Troupe.
Filipino Hospitality: Delegates enjoyed curated experiences, including a sunset cruise and wellness services.
MSME Showcase: An exhibition highlighting Filipino creativity, innovation, and craftsmanship, reinforcing the Philippines’ commitment to inclusive growth by connecting regional cooperation with local economic opportunities.
The successful outcome of the Retreat reflects the collaborative spirit of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) with member agencies of the Philippine Committee on the ASEAN Economic Community, the ASEAN 2026 National Organizing Committee, the Local Government of Aklan, and the community of Boracay.
