Roadshow to Philippines

The ASEAN-BAC Retreat at Manila, Philippines brought together for a pivotal day of reflection, strategy, and future planning.

The Retreat was officiated with remarks by ASEAN-BAC Chairman Tan Sri Nazir Razak, followed by the ASEAN-BAC Co-Chair and Chairman of ASEAN-BAC Philippines, Joey Concepcion, setting the tone for a collaborative journey toward a stronger ASEAN private sector role.

Participants reflected on ASEAN-BAC’s evolving role with insights from His Excellency Satvinder Singh, Deputy Secretary-General of the ASEAN Economic Community, followed by a candid assessment of current performance led by ASEAN-BAC’s Executive Director Rifki Weno. This continued with visioning workshops, where delegates defined success for the next 3–5 years and identified the Council’s key priorities.

The day also included a dialogue with Philippines DTI Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque, and concluded with a roadmap toward finalising the ASEAN-BAC Post-2025 Strategic Plan, to be presented to the ASEAN Economic Ministers in September 2025.

That evening, First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos graced the kick-off of ASEAN-BAC Reimagined, expressing strong support for ASEAN unity and collaboration ahead of the Philippines’ 2026 Chairmanship. Former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo was also in attendance, alongside Ministers of Trade, Education, and Budget & Management, as well as Ambassadors and High Commissioners.

The roadshow concluded the following day with a luncheon hosted by the Malaysian Embassy in the Philippines where Ambassador Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino Anthony and ASEAN-BAC Executive Director Jukhee Hong engaged in meaningful discussion, celebrating continued collaboration and regional friendship.

To learn more: FL graces ASEAN-BAC Manila retreat