The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to regional economic leadership during the official launch of the Strategic Action Plan for the country’s 2026 ASEAN Chairship. The initiative signals a forward-looking agenda aimed at strengthening economic integration, fostering innovation, and promoting inclusive growth across Southeast Asia.
At the launch, Secretary Cris A. Roque highlighted the Philippines’ key national priorities, emphasizing the importance of innovation-driven development, inclusive trade policies, and stronger public-private sector collaboration. The Strategic Action Plan, developed by the US-ASEAN Business Council in partnership with the ASEAN Business Advisory Council Philippines, reflects a shared vision of a more resilient, competitive, and sustainable ASEAN economy.
“The Philippines is committed to championing initiatives that empower businesses, uplift communities, and create opportunities for all,” Secretary Roque said. “Through this Strategic Action Plan, we aim to deepen regional integration while ensuring that growth is inclusive, future-ready, and responsive to emerging global challenges.”
The plan outlines a comprehensive set of priority actions designed to accelerate ASEAN’s economic transformation. These include enhancing regional connectivity, investing in workforce development and digital skills, supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and advancing sustainability initiatives aligned with global climate and development goals.
Central to the Plan is the recognition of the private sector as a key partner in driving innovation and economic progress. By strengthening collaboration between governments and businesses, the Philippines aims to unlock new opportunities for trade and investment while addressing structural barriers to growth.
As the Philippines prepares to assume the ASEAN Chairship in 2026, the Strategic Action Plan positions the country to lead with purpose and deliver meaningful outcomes for the region. The DTI underscored that the Chairship will serve as a platform to advance shared prosperity, economic resilience, and deeper regional cooperation.
The launch marks an important milestone in the Philippines’ leadership journey within ASEAN, reinforcing its role as a proactive and collaborative partner in shaping the region’s economic future.
