The Philippines, through the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), hosted the 4th ASEAN Blue Economy Forum on August 24 to 25 at the Makati Shangri-La. The event brought together policymakers, development partners, business leaders, academics, civil society groups, and coastal and maritime communities to advance regional cooperation on the Blue Economy.
Held under the theme of the Philippines’ 2026 ASEAN Chairship, “Navigating Our Future, Together,” the forum aimed to translate shared marine priorities into concrete regional action, institutional partnerships, and practical initiatives. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA) supported the event.
DTI International Trade Undersecretary Allan B. Gepty highlighted the Philippines’ strong connection to the sea and the need to balance environmental protection with economic growth.
“The Blue Economy agenda therefore gives ASEAN an opportunity to align two priorities that should never be uncoupled: protecting our oceans and creating prosperity for our people,” Gepty said.
The discussions built on the ASEAN Blue Economy Framework, adopted in 2023, and supported the operationalization of the ASEAN Blue Economy Implementation Plan 2026–2030, which seeks to transition the region from policy formulation toward concrete implementation.
“Trade and industry can help us answer one of the central questions of the Blue Economy: How do we grow without depleting what makes growth possible?” Gepty added. He emphasized the need to support sustainable enterprises, strengthen regional value chains, and direct investments toward solutions that generate jobs while protecting marine environments.
Throughout the forum, participants stressed the importance of robust governance, innovative financing, improved data monitoring, and inclusive community involvement in policy design. Delegates also examined ways to expand ocean-based industries through enhanced infrastructure and regional connectivity without degrading marine ecosystems.
The forum is part of the Philippines’ efforts as the 2026 ASEAN Chair to foster inclusive, sustainable growth and drive practical regional cooperation.
