PH eyes stronger ASEAN trade, investment, digital links

The Philippines is aiming to strengthen its trade and investment connections with ASEAN nations, as it navigates the midpoint of its 2026 chairmanship of the regional bloc. During the second ASEAN Business Media Exchange (ABMX) 2026 on September 7, the country's leaders, alongside business and government officials, explored ways to translate regional cooperation into tangible opportunities for corporations and investors.

Secretary Cristina Roque of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) emphasized emerging industries that could spur trade and investment, such as renewable energy, electric vehicles, information technology, advanced manufacturing, and talent development. The discussions underscored how enhanced regional economic ties could bolster investments and bolster the Philippines' role as a production and investment hub.

Digitalization was a prominent theme, with a panel focusing on how digitalization can empower micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by facilitating their access to regional markets. The panelists, Patrick Signo of the Data Center Association of the Philippines, Rowie Zamora of Mynt (GCash), and Wilson Siahaan of Ant International, discussed the essential infrastructure, technology, and skills necessary for MSMEs to leverage digital tools and compete on a regional scale.

The event also featured a session on advancing the ASEAN Community pillars, with Roque, Rex Gatchalian of the Department of Social Welfare and Development, and Leo Herrera-Lim of the Department of Foreign Affairs. These discussions aimed to transform ASEAN Centrality into practical trade, investment, and digital opportunities for the region.