President Marcos has departed for South Korea with confidence that his attendance at the 32nd Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Meeting will produce concrete and meaningful outcomes.

"I am fully confident that our participation in the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting (AELM) will produce concrete, meaningful outcomes that enhance cooperation, drive connectivity, and promote inclusive prosperity," Marcos said in his departure speech on Thursday, Oct. 30.

He stressed that the APEC meeting is imperative, considering the  immense economic gravity of the APEC region.

He noted that it accounts for nearly 46 percent of global trade in goods and commercial services, and generates roughly 61 percent of the total global GDP.

This means, Marcos said, that the growth and stability of this region are directly tied to the opportunities and welfare of all Filipinos.

"So, given these high stakes, this gathering is imperative. We convene at a critical juncture, defined by evolving geopolitical landscapes, supply chain disruptions, threats of climate change, and the urgent need for equitable and inclusive growth," he said, further noting that  the Philippines's collaboration with the Republic of Korea and all APEC economies is pivotal.

During his participation, his engagement with the leaders of economies in the Asia-Pacific region will be focused on actionable areas such as guaranteeing equitable access to digital services and financial inclusion, particularly in underserved rural areas; advancing seamless movement of goods and people through investment facilitation and infrastructure development; promoting supply chain resiliency amidst shocks and crisis; and  promoting digital literacy and skills development for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), women, and other segments whose full economic potential can be realized through digitalization.

"We will forge deeper ties around our shared goals and objectives, including fostering AI-driven innovation, enhancing cultural and creative industries, and proactively addressing demographic challenges," Marcos said.

"This collective resolve will ensure that our development efforts align with regional progress, laying the groundwork for a future where the power of creativity, technology, and sustainability benefits every Filipino," he added.

The President said he will be delivering a special speech at the APEC CEO Summit, an annual gathering of top CEOs within the APEC region, where he intends to showcase the Philippines’ commitment to fostering economic partnerships and promoting a favorable business climate.

Marcos also said he would lobby for stronger collaboration with regional partners, including ASEAN, in driving and achieving shared objectives for a sustainable, technologically empowered, and inclusive future.

"As the Chair of ASEAN in 2026, our goal is to impart that working silos impede the region’s potential," he said. "Real growth and lasting prosperity are achievable when we break down barriers, share knowledge, and collaborate across sectors, industries, and communities."

On the sidelines, Marcos will meet with Korean business leaders to deepen trade ties, attract investments, and strengthen people-to-people cooperation.

"I want to use this moment to reaffirm a core truth to the international business community: The Philippines is not merely ready. We are a reliable, forward-looking partner in the Asia-Pacific. Invest in the Filipino," he said.

"I also look forward to meeting our vibrant Filipino community in Busan for the first time, where our fellow countrymen continue to thrive and make meaningful contributions to the city’s socio-economic growth, further strengthening the enduring people-to-people ties between the Philippines and the Republic of Korea," he added.

The President flew to  Gyeongju, Republic of Korea two days after completing his participation at the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

While he is away, the secretaries of Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), Department of Education (DepEd), and Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin will be the government's caretakers.

The plane carrying the President, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and the Philippine delegation took off at 12:45 p.m. from Villamor Airbase in Pasay City.