Go Negosyo founder and Association of Southeast Asian Nations-Business Advisory Council (ASEAN–BAC) 2026 chair Joey Concepcion called on the government and the public to focus on safeguarding the country’s reputation ahead of its chairmanship of the ASEAN Summit and its Related Meetings in 2026.

His call was made amid the current corruption scandal gripping the nation, but Concepcion underscored that the Philippines must maintain its reputation as a viable investment destination.

“We can’t afford to lose focus. The actions of a few should not define the Philippines. The Philippines will find it difficult to be a great nation if this level of corruption persists. Yes, Filipinos have long accepted that there will be some corruption, but nobody expected it to be of this magnitude or shamelessness,” Concepcion said.

“Still, I am reassured knowing that there are good people in government who still keep the faith and plod on, fighting the good fight,” he added.

Calling the ASEAN chairship “the biggest international event of this administration,” the Go Negosyo founder highlighted the 2026 priorities of Prosperity Corridors and People Empowerment, which President Marcos identified during the National Launch of the Philippines Chairship of ASEAN 2026.

These priorities align with efforts to uplift and scale the country’s MSMEs, which make up almost all (99.6 percent) of the establishments in the country, Concepcion stated.

“MSMEs represent the backbone of our economy, employing millions and driving local growth,” he said. “Our hosting of ASEAN 2026 can serve as a launchpad for these businesses.”

He also stressed the importance for the public and private sectors to work together and ensure that ordinary citizens will reap the rewards of the Philippines’ hosting of ASEAN meetings.

He recalled how his father—Jose “Joecon” Concepcion Jr.—who was one of the key figures in ASEAN’s founding, encouraged a proactive approach to leadership.

“He believed it is better to light a candle than to curse the darkness,” Concepcion said.

“With ASEAN, we make sure that the candle never goes out and its light is spread as it is shared throughout the region and to the more than 700 million people that make up the ASEAN member-states.”

Reaffirming the private sector’s support, he urged Filipinos to rally behind the international event.

“We will do our part. Go Negosyo will double its efforts, and we will work closely with business groups across the country to ensure that our MSMEs can leverage this opportunity to grow, network, and thrive in a competitive environment,” he said.

“This is our moment to shine. We must stay focused, stay disciplined, and show that yes — the Filipino can.”