The Philippines reaffirmed its commitment to deepening regional economic integration and advancing sustainable growth during the 25th ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) Council Meeting held on 25 May 2025 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Representing Secretary Ma. Cristina Aldeguer-Roque of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Undersecretary Allan B. Gepty of the International Trade Group, participated in the high-level meeting, which preceded the 46th ASEAN Summit.
The AEC Council Meeting served as a crucial platform for economic ministers to finalize key deliverables ahead of the Summit. Central to the discussions was the endorsement of the AEC Strategic Plan 2026–2030, which outlines the region’s priorities for deeper integration and inclusive growth over the next five years.
In his intervention, Undersecretary Gepty emphasized the importance of reinforcing ASEAN’s global credibility by showcasing the region’s status as a center of economic dynamism. He cited ASEAN’s sustained GDP growth and its position as the largest recipient of foreign direct investment among developing regions as indicators of its economic resilience.
“In the face of global uncertainties, ASEAN must demonstrate reliability through credible and rules-based free trade frameworks,” said Gepty. “The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), as the world’s largest free trade agreement, must continue to serve as a cornerstone of inclusive and sustainable regional growth.”
Undersecretary Gepty also highlighted the need for more precise and results-driven mechanisms to monitor ASEAN’s progress on sustainability and integration goals. He called for greater alignment between regional strategies and measurable outcomes that deliver real benefits to ASEAN Member States and their citizens.
The Philippines remains steadfast in its support for ASEAN’s economic agenda, and will continue working with regional partners to ensure that economic cooperation translates into shared prosperity.
