President Marcos has backed the establishment of an ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) Centre of Excellence for Artificial Intelligence, saying responsible and inclusive technology must be at the heart of the region’s digital future.

Speaking at the ASEAN Leaders’ Interface with the ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC), Marcos said the Philippines fully supports the proposed AI engagement platform, which he called a "strategic approach to digital governance."

"Such Centre can lead in shaping an AI ecosystem that empowers our people, safeguards our values, and contributes to sustainable development throughout our region," he said Monday, May 26.

He added that ASEAN’s private and public sectors must work together to ensure that the benefits of AI reach all sectors of society.

"By fostering collaboration on responsible and inclusive AI, [the AI Engagement Platform] ensures that technological advancements benefit all segments of society," he said.

Marcos’ remarks came as ASEAN continues to build toward its 2045 vision of a connected and resilient regional economy.

Philippine Ambassador to Malaysia Maria Angela Ponce said in an earlier interview that President Marcos "supports the call for digital transformation and the establishment of a digital economy in ASEAN."

"The ASEAN-BAC plays an important role in helping the region realize its vision to build a digital ASEAN," she said.

The ASEAN-BAC, formed in 2001 during the 7th ASEAN Summit in Brunei Darussalam, serves as the apex private sector body of the bloc and regularly engages regional business leaders and policymakers.

President Marcos also threw his support behind deeper public-private collaboration in developing the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement, saying digital infrastructure and human capital are key to building a future-ready ASEAN.

"Above all, we must continue to invest in our people," he said.

"A digitally literate, adaptable workforce is the foundation for any progress we hope to achieve," he added.

The Chief Executive likewise commended the ASEAN Talent Development and Mobility Initiative, describing it as essential in preparing the region’s workforce for the future of work. He welcomed further collaboration on student mobility, digital literacy, and upskilling.

While addressing regional trade concerns, President Marcos acknowledged ASEAN-BAC’s call to improve the ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement (ATIGA) implementation.

However, he warned that excessive regulation should not become a barrier to trade.

"While regulations are certainly necessary, we must ensure that they do not become trade barriers," he said.

Marcos added that ASEAN could begin looking into "strategic trade management" to ensure both open and secure commerce across the region.

The President also expressed gratitude to ASEAN-BAC for its efforts to support micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which make up more than 99 percent of all businesses in the region. He welcomed the roadmap for implementing a Unique Business Identification Number (UBIN) to help MSMEs expand beyond their home markets.

Despite global tensions and trade policy shifts, Marcos said ASEAN’s stability and resolve should give confidence to the business sector.

"Even as trade tensions and policy uncertainties remain, the private sector can find assurance in ASEAN’s quiet resolve to uphold stability and deepen economic cooperation," he said.

"By ensuring that trade remains both open and secure, we aim to foster a more trusted and resilient economic environment," he added.

The President likewise reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to building a "future-ready ASEAN" that is united in purpose, bold in vision, and inclusive in progress.