Representing the Philippines on the global stage, National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan called for stronger international cooperation and digital inclusivity during the 2026 World Governments Summit held on February 4.
Speaking at the Ministerial Round Table titled “Shaping Future Governments: Achievements and Challenges in the Global South,” Balisacan emphasized that the complexities of modern, transboundary challenges require a steadfast commitment to equity, international law, and open dialogue.
As the Philippines assumes the ASEAN Chairmanship for 2026, Balisacan highlighted the nation’s leadership in steering the region toward collective resilience. Under the theme “Navigating the Future, Together,” the Philippines is prioritizing:
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Regional Resilience: Building buffers against global economic shocks.
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Sustainable Growth: Harmonizing environmental goals with industrial expansion.
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Digital Transformation: Harmonizing policy frameworks across Southeast Asia.
A centerpiece of the Secretary’s intervention was the introduction of the National Digital Connectivity Plan (NDCP) 2026–2037. This 12-year roadmap serves as the country’s blueprint for:
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Closing the Digital Divide: Ensuring high-speed internet reaches remote and underserved communities.
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Institutional Strengthening: Enhancing the government’s ability to provide secure, digital-first public services.
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Inclusive Growth: Leveraging technology to create high-quality jobs and empower small businesses. “The future of governance in the Global South relies on our ability to transform digital challenges into avenues for inclusive prosperity,” Balisacan stated.
The Secretary noted that the Philippines’ current influence is built on the momentum of successful 2025 milestones, including hosting the High-Level Conference of Middle-Income Countries and the Open Government Partnership Asia and the Pacific Regional Meeting. These events solidified the nation’s role as a key architect in international consensus-building.
Secretary Balisacan was supported in Dubai by a distinguished Philippine delegation, reflecting a whole-of-government approach to global diplomacy:
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Ernesto V. Perez, Secretary of the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA)
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Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III, Former Senator
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Dr. Alex B. Brillantes, Jr., Secretary-General of the Eastern Regional Organization for Public Administration (EROPA)
The World Governments Summit remains a premier global platform for leaders to exchange innovative governance models as the Global South continues to gain significant economic and political influence.
