Manila: The Philippines is set to host a series of high-level ASEAN meetings throughout September and October, in preparation for the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits scheduled for November. These meetings will focus on economic integration, disaster resilience, tourism, gender development, and more.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) will spearhead the ASEAN Economic Ministers (AEM) Meetings and Related Meetings from September 14 to 22 at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC). The gatherings aim to enhance regional economic integration, discuss global economic developments, and push forward the Philippines' priority economic deliverables during its ASEAN chairship. Outcomes from these meetings will shape economic discussions at the upcoming November summit.
In addition to economic discussions, other significant activities include the ASEAN Creative Industries Expo and the ASEAN MSME Summit from September 17 to 21. These events will underscore the roles of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and the creative economy in promoting innovation, job creation, and inclusive growth.
The Office of Civil Defense is set to lead the ASEAN Ministerial Conference on Disaster Resilience on September 15 and 16. Furthermore, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) will conduct the ASEAN Peace Education High-Level Conference from September 22 to 23 at Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria, under the theme 'Peace Education for Shared Futures and Enduring Cooperation.'
Focusing on women and gender development, the Philippine Commission on Women will oversee three major regional events from September to October. These will emphasize women's leadership, women, peace and security, and the care economy, with the 4th ASEAN Women Leaders' Summit occurring from September 29 to October 1.
The Department of Tourism will host the ASEAN Tourism Ministers' Retreat on September 29 in Manila, creating a platform for tourism ministers to address emerging challenges and opportunities. The ASEAN Tourism Investment Showcase will coincide with this retreat, connecting member-states with investors and stakeholders.
In October, the Department of Energy will lead discussions from October 5 to 9 at the PICC, while OPAPRU will organize activities from October 6 to 9. The Department of the Interior and Local Government will conduct the 20th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Transnational Crime from October 19 to 21 in Manila. Additionally, the Department of National Defense will host the 20th ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting on October 28 and 29 in Cebu.
These meetings aim to advance the Philippines' ASEAN Chairship priorities and deliverables, with their conclusions feeding into the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits in November.
