Philippines to lead ASEAN economic agenda starting 2026

The Philippines will assume chairship of the ASEAN Economic Ministers’ (AEM) in January 2026, following the formal handover from Malaysia on September 23.

The ceremony saw Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina A. Roque receive the gavel from Malaysia’s Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry H.E. Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz.

Secretary Roque emphasized the country’s commitment to guiding ASEAN toward its next stage of economic growth and regional cooperation.

She said the Philippines will prioritize translating the newly issued ASEAN Community Vision 2045 into tangible opportunities that create jobs, foster innovation, and promote inclusive growth.

“As you conclude your chairship, the Philippines is ready to take on the gavel with unwavering commitment and purpose, building on your momentum to lead the region,” Roque said.

“Let me assure you that the Philippines will uphold the true spirit of ASEAN—fostering development, strengthening bonds, and deepening friendship among its member countries,” she added.

The handover took place during a week-long series of high-level meetings in Kuala Lumpur with ASEAN ministers and partners including Australia, Canada, China, the European Union, India, Japan, Korea, New Zealand, Switzerland, Russia, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Hong Kong, China.

The AEM, made up of trade and economic ministers from ten ASEAN states with Timor-Leste as observer, leads the region’s economic agenda and is supported by senior officials and the High-Level Task Force on ASEAN Economic Integration.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is expected to attend the formal turnover of ASEAN Chairship from Malaysia to the Philippines at the 47th ASEAN Summit this October.