BIZ BUZZ: DTI chief to lead Asean Ministers meeting
It’s official: the Philippines will host the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Economic (Asean) Ministers in 2026.
Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque will assume the post of Asean Economic Ministers (AEM) meeting chair, succeeding Malaysia’s Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz.
In her speech, Roque emphasized the Philippines’ commitment to elevating the region’s economic growth and cooperation through AEM, which is responsible for advancing the region’s economic agenda.
“Let me assure you that the Philippines will uphold the true spirit of Asean—fostering development, strengthening bonds and deepening friendship among its member countries,” the trade chief said.
She added that the Philippines “is ready to take on the gavel with unwavering commitment and purpose,” building on Malaysia’s momentum to lead the region.
Let’s hope that Roque can muster more energy to transform the newly issued Asean Community Vision 2045 into concrete opportunities to generate jobs, stimulate innovation and promote inclusive growth for businesses and people across the region.
Even without the AEM chairmanship, Roque already has a lot on her plate—from selling the Philippines as an investment destination to ironing out issues on contractor accreditation and licensing.
