As global geopolitical tensions continue to disrupt economies worldwide, it is now more than ever, crucial for ASEAN leaders and businesses to work together to mobilize long-term capital and foster sustainable growth across the region. A stronger ASEAN can unlock new opportunities for inclusive development.
This year, the Philippines, as ASEAN Chair, is strengthening partnerships with the private sector to boost jobs and expand access to financial services through investments in infrastructure and connectivity.
“My conviction is that the government should be an enabler of business. The government’s role is to strengthen the fundamentals of our investment environment and make it conducive for the private sector to grow, invest, and partner with the public sector,” Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go said.
Secretary Frederick Go, together with Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Eli Romolona Jr., co-chaired the ASEAN Finance Ministers’ and Central Bank Governors’ Meeting (AFMGM) with ASEAN Business Councils. The sessions included meetings with the United States-ASEAN Business Council (US-ABC), the European Union-ASEAN Business Council (EU-ABC), and the ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC) on April 9, 2026.
The discussions highlighted that the US’s strengths in public-private partnerships (PPPs), blended finance, and risk-sharing mechanisms can be leveraged to fund critical infrastructure, strengthen regional connectivity, and support high-impact sectors.
The talks also highlighted the growing role of technology and artificial intelligence (AI) in driving efficiency, enhancing financial services, and enabling businesses to compete in an increasingly digital economy.
Given the EU’s expertise in digital and sustainable finance, Secretary Frederick Go called for stronger EU-ASEAN cooperation in expanding access to financial services to support small businesses and accelerate climate action—opening more opportunities for green investments.
Meanwhile, during the ASEAN-BAC meeting, Secretary Frederick Go called for scaling up inclusive financing for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and agri-food value chains, while strengthening regional payment connectivity.
Ultimately, these initiatives will boost cross-border trade and investment, broaden access to financial services—especially for underserved communities—helping build a more integrated and resilient ASEAN economy.
The Philippine Co-Chairs, together with ASEAN Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors, expressed optimism that the commitments and insights from these engagements will lead to concrete actions, stronger investments, and long-term partnerships that directly benefit the region’s economies and people.
