ASEAN-BAC Chairman and Go Negosyo founder Joey Concepcion (Photo from ASEAN-BAC Philippines)
The Philippines has formally assumed the chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations-Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC) for 2026 during the formal handover ceremonies in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
The ceremony, held on Oct. 26, formalized the leadership by the Philippines of the ASEAN-BAC for 2026, complementing its chairmanship of ASEAN for next year.
The regional body “provides private sector feedback and guidance to boost ASEAN’s efforts towards economic integration and identifies priority areas for consideration by ASEAN Leaders,” a statement from ASEAN-BAC Philippines said.
Headed by its chair Joey Concepcion III, the ASEAN-BAC delegation and council members George Barcelon and Michael Tan went to Kuala Lumpur to personally attend the ceremonies held during the 47th ASEAN Summit from Oct. 24 to 27.
“There has been plenty of exchanging of ideas, and I am glad to hear how some resonate with my own views of the role of ASEAN and the private sector in bringing about inclusive, sustainable growth,” Concepcion said.
“As we take on this new role, our goal is to build on this momentum, empowering MSMEs and strengthening partnerships that drive inclusive growth and food security across the region. Together, we can ensure that the ASEAN spirit of unity, innovation, and entrepreneurship continues to thrive,” he added.
Alongside the summit, ASEAN and business leaders also held the ASEAN Business and Investment Summit, the ASEAN Business Awards, and the inaugural ASEAN Inclusive Growth Summit.
For 2026, the ASEAN-BAC Philippines is expected to build on the theme “Prosperity for All,” which was its guiding theme at its last chairship in 2017.