Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia—Joining President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina A. Roque participated at the 46th ASEAN Summit hosted by Malaysia on May 26, in her role as the Philippines’ ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) Council Minister.

A key outcome of this year’s Summit was the unveiling of “ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Future.” This strategic roadmap outlines the region’s vision for the next two decades.

The document includes the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, anchored on building a resilient, innovative, dynamic, and people-centered ASEAN. This is underpinned by strategic plans across the region’s political-security, economic, and socio-cultural pillars.

Central to the economic pillar is the new AEC Strategic Plan 2026-2030, designed to reinforce ASEAN’s identity as a competitive single market and production hub. The strategy champions digital transformation, innovation, sustainability, and inclusiveness, aligned with President Marcos Jr.’s key priorities for Filipino micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

The plan opens new opportunities for Filipino entrepreneurs to expand across ASEAN’s growing consumer base and those of its external partners by reducing trade barriers, streamlining regional supply chains, and promoting digital adoption.

“ASEAN remains to be a vital platform for advancing Philippine national interests through regional cooperation,” underscored Secretary Roque.

“As the Philippines prepares to assume the ASEAN Chairship in 2026, we are committed to a leadership that prioritizes people and businesses, especially MSMEs, at the heart of regional growth,” she added.

The Philippines’ upcoming Chairship presents a critical opportunity to shape regional initiatives that directly support the nation’s domestic agenda: bolstering trade relationships, empowering local industries, and fostering resilient employment for Filipinos.