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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Marcos: PH to push economic corridors, supply chains as ASEAN-BAC chair in 2026

Marcos: PH to push economic corridors, supply chains as ASEAN-BAC chair in 2026

Published Jan 30, 2026 02:44 pm
President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. (Malacañang photo)
President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. (Malacañang photo)
President Marcos said the Philippines will prioritize the development of economic corridors and stronger regional supply chains as it assumes the chairmanship of the ASEAN-Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC) in 2026.
Speaking at the ceremonial handover of the ASEAN-BAC chairship in Malacañan on Thursday, Jan. 29, Marcos said the Philippines’ leadership will focus on expanding trade and investment opportunities across the region.
“Under the Philippine Chairship, we place strong emphasis on building economic corridors that expand trade and investment, strengthen regional supply chains, and open doors of opportunity for businesses and communities across ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations),” the President said.
Marcos said regional economies are undergoing rapid transformation, requiring closer coordination between governments and the private sector to sustain inclusive growth.

‘Navigating Our Future, Together’

Marcos said the Philippines’ approach to leading ASEAN-BAC will be guided by its broader ASEAN chair theme, “Navigating Our Future, Together.”
“This theme speaks clearly to our emerging needs and challenges,” he said.
The President said ASEAN’s strength lies in its ability to turn uncertainty into opportunity through cooperation, trust, and shared accountability.
“ASEAN ensures that progress is guided by cooperation, strengthened by mutual trust, and anchored in common accountability,” Marcos said.

Backing ASEAN-BAC’s four pillars

President Marcos said the priorities identified by ASEAN-BAC for 2026 align closely with the Philippines’ regional development goals.
He noted that the council’s four pillars—people, planet, platform, and productivity—support initiatives aimed at inclusive and sustainable growth.
“These initiatives include empowering micro, small, and medium enterprises, workers, youth, and women; strengthening food security and agricultural productivity; advancing a digital and AI-enabled ASEAN; and boosting industry growth and regional integration,” Marcos said.

Private sector seen as key partner

Marcos underscored the importance of the private sector in translating ASEAN’s economic goals into concrete outcomes.
“The vision and leadership of the private sector remain indispensable,” he said.
The President said the government will continue to provide platforms for dialogue among policymakers, business leaders, investors, and innovators to deepen regional cooperation.

ASEAN-BAC silver anniversary

President Marcos also recognized ASEAN-BAC’s 25th year, describing the council as a trusted partner in advancing regional integration.
“As ASEAN-BAC marks its Silver Anniversary, we recognize its contribution as a trusted partner in translating regional aspirations into concrete action,” he said.
The Philippines formally received the ASEAN-BAC chairship from Malaysia during the ceremony, with businessman and GoNegosyo founder Joey Concepcion leading the Philippine council for 2026.

Related Tags

President Marcos Bongbong Marcos ASEAN ASEAN-BAC PH
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