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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Concepcion: ASEAN 2026 hosting chance for PH to show it's ready, open for business

Concepcion: ASEAN 2026 hosting chance for PH to show it's ready, open for business

Published Jan 17, 2026 10:57 am  |  Updated Jan 17, 2026 01:10 pm
ASEAN–BAC 2026 Chair Jose Ma. “Joey” Concepcion III.
ASEAN–BAC 2026 Chair Jose Ma. “Joey” Concepcion III.
Hosting the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summits this year gives the Philippines a timely opportunity to show the world that it is ready, credible, and open for business, according to ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC) 2026 chair and Go Negosyo founder Joey Concepcion said.
In a statement, Concepcion said ASEAN 2026 comes at a critical moment for the country, following a year marked by corruption controversies that have tested public trust and investor confidence.
“Coming on the heels of a year marked by corruption scandals, ASEAN 2026 offers the Philippines a timely chance to demonstrate our commitment to reform, accountability, and good governance,” he said.
According to Concepcion, the year-long ASEAN hosting allows the Philippines to send a clear signal that it can manage international engagement with integrity and professionalism.
“We must use this moment to affirm that we do not tolerate theft or misconduct and that we will hold individuals accountable,’ he said.
“We should show, convincingly and transparently, that the Philippines is ready to receive and steward international investment with integrity and competence,” he added.

Private sector takes the lead

Concepcion, who will serve as the private sector’s counterpart to President Marcos during the Philippine chairship, said ASEAN 2026 is an opportunity that comes only once every eleven years.
He noted that multiple business groups and industry sectors have already expressed interest in contributing to the regional economic agenda.
“Each sector recognizes that ASEAN 2026—and particularly the ASEAN Business and Investment Summit—will convene thousands of global leaders, CEOs, and top executives in discussions that will help shape the region’s economic future,” Concepcion said.
The official turnover of the ASEAN-BAC chairship from Malaysia to the Philippines will be held at Malacañang Palace on Jan. 29, with President Marcos set to witness the ceremony and deliver the keynote message.
Concepcion said the state-level involvement underscores the administration’s support for close public-private collaboration in advancing regional economic integration.

Rebuilding trust, advancing prosperity

This year’s ASEAN-BAC theme is “Navigating Our Future Together: Advancing Prosperity for All,” coinciding with the council’s 25th anniversary.
The Philippine chairship also precedes the rollout of the ASEAN Economic Community Strategic Plan, the first five-year phase toward ASEAN Vision 2045, and will mark the participation of ASEAN’s newest member, Timor-Leste.
For Concepcion, ASEAN 2026 is ultimately about restoring confidence at home and abroad.
“We have a workforce that is preparing to meet the needs of future industries, there are skilled and principled public servants still in government, and we have a private sector that is aligned with national goals for shared prosperity,” he said.
“We have every reason to be proud hosts of ASEAN 2026,” he added.

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Joey Concepcion Go Negosyo ASEAN
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