The Philippines is set to host the ASEAN Summits in 2026, with private sector leader Joey Concepcion III viewing it as a chance to demonstrate the country's readiness for international business amid recent corruption issues.
As the Philippines gears up to chair ASEAN in 2026, Joey Concepcion III, the new chair of the ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC), sees the event as a pivotal moment to showcase the nation's commitment to reform and good governance. This comes after a year plagued by corruption scandals, offering a platform to rebuild trust both at home and abroad.
A handover ceremony is scheduled for January 29 at Malacañang Palace, where President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will witness the transfer of the ASEAN-BAC chairship from Malaysia and deliver the keynote address. This state-level event underscores the government's support for public-private partnerships in regional integration.
"ASEAN 2026 offers the Philippines a timely chance to demonstrate our commitment to reform, accountability and good governance," Concepcion stated. He emphasized the need to affirm intolerance for misconduct and to transparently manage international investments.
The year's theme, "Navigating Our Future Together: Advancing Prosperity for All," aligns with the 25th anniversary of ASEAN-BAC and precedes the ASEAN Economic Community Strategic Plan toward Vision 2045. It also marks the inclusion of Timor-Leste as ASEAN's newest member.
Concepcion highlighted strong interest from various sectors to contribute to the agenda, particularly the ASEAN Business and Investment Summit, which will gather global leaders to shape the region's economic future. He expressed confidence in the Philippine workforce and private sector's alignment with national goals for shared prosperity.
