The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), under the leadership of Cristina A. Roque, convened a Special Meeting of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) Council to advance coordinated regional responses and develop practical solutions addressing the economic impacts of the ongoing Middle East crisis.
In his capacity as Chair of the AEC Council, Secretary Roque emphasized the urgency of unified action among ASEAN Member States to preserve economic stability, sustain growth, and mitigate disruptions affecting businesses—particularly micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). He underscored that ASEAN’s enduring strength lies in its commitment to cooperation, regional integration, and collective resilience.
“The challenges posed by global uncertainties require not only national responses but a cohesive regional strategy. ASEAN must act decisively and collaboratively to protect livelihoods, stabilize supply chains, and reinforce business confidence,” Secretary Roque stated.
Deliberations during the meeting were guided by insights and policy recommendations from key regional and international institutions, including the ASEAN Secretariat, the Asian Development Bank, the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia, and the ASEAN Business Advisory Council.
Participants focused on actionable measures across three critical areas:
- Energy Coordination: Enhancing regional cooperation to manage volatility in energy markets, ensure stable supply, and explore sustainable energy alternatives.
- Food Security: Strengthening mechanisms to secure food supply chains, mitigate price pressures, and support agricultural resilience across member states.
- Enterprise Support: Delivering timely and targeted assistance to businesses, particularly MSMEs, to help them navigate disruptions and maintain competitiveness.
The Philippines reaffirmed its strong commitment to championing coordinated, forward-looking strategies that enhance economic resilience and reinforce investor and consumer confidence throughout the ASEAN region.
As ASEAN continues to navigate a complex global landscape, the outcomes of this Special Meeting underscore the bloc’s shared resolve to act collectively, safeguard economic stability, and promote inclusive growth for all member economies.
