Security Bank Economic Forum 2025: Navigating Tariffs, trade, and ASEAN’s Next Moves

Makati, Philippines, October 16, 2025—Now in its 15th year, the Security Bank Economic Forum continues to be a premier platform for business and investors to understand trends driving growth and opportunity across ASEAN. This year’s theme, “Trump, trade, and the impact on ASEAN,” zeroes in on how shifting US trade and tariff policies are reshaping the region’s economic outlook and influencing strategies for resilience and growth.

“Global shifts—from US trade policies to geopolitical tensions—continue to reshape the flow of goods, capital, and talent. For Philippine businesses, these translate into real challenges such as supply chain disruptions and investment uncertainties,” said Cirilo P. Noel, Security Bank Chairman.  “At Security Bank, our BetterBanking promise means going beyond financial services to empower clients with insights that help them navigate complexity, adapt with resilience, and seize opportunities,” he added.

The forum featured thought leaders offering timely perspectives on the evolving global landscape. 

Curtis S. Chin, former U.S. Ambassador to the Asian Development Bank and Senior Advisor for Global Markets at the Milken Institute, explored how US trade and tariff policies under President Donald Trump are influencing ASEAN economies, and redefining partnerships.

“As geopolitical tensions rise, businesses must understand both the risks and opportunities of this new era. Tariffs and trade are not just economic issues—they shape the future of cooperation and competition in the region,” said Chin. “However, we should never forget that progress in any nation is ultimately up to its own leaders, its own citizens, its own businesses, its own communities, its civil society. Whoever is president of the United States or any other outside nation should be no excuse for not moving forward.”

Dr. Cielito F. Habito, former Socioeconomic Planning Secretary, unpacked the implications of shifting global policies on the Philippine economy—emphasizing strategies for resilience and inclusive growth.

“Many see opportunities for the Philippines along with the clear threats from tectonic shifts in the global financial and economic landscape, but in the end, we could well be our own worst enemy in navigating through all the changes happening,” Dr. Habito said. “We need fundamental policy and institutional reforms to avoid the real threats to the nation’s future arising from self-inflicted weaknesses, especially in our most basic assets: our people and our land.”

“Uncertainty is not an excuse to stand still. It’s a call for clarity, agility, and purpose.,” said Sanjiv Vohra, Security Bank President and CEO. “Forums like this embody our BetterBanking promise—bringing together ideas, connections, and strategies that help clients thrive amid change.”

The 15th Security Bank Economic Forum reaffirms the Bank’s commitment to fostering dialogue that drives informed decision-making. By convening global and local experts, the Bank continues to provide actionable insights that equip businesses to navigate volatility with confidence and purpose.

BetterBanking means being ready for what’s next. Learn more at www.securitybank.com.

EdgePoint Infrastructure’s Connectivity for Communities Programme Improves Access to Connectivity and Digital Literacy For Students In the Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia

Manila, Philippines – 10 February 2024 – EdgePoint Infrastructure (“EdgePoint”), an ASEAN-based independent telecommunications infrastructure company, have launched the Connectivity for Communities programme – a regional corporate responsibility initiative aimed at providing access to connectivity for students in underserved communities.

Rolled out across the Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia, this programme is part of EdgePoint’s ongoing commitment to enhancing equitable access to connectivity across the region, especially in the underserved communities. In an effort to ensure the right communities benefit from these initiatives, EdgePoint has partnered with local organisations who understand the grassroots’ needs better in each country, allowing them to curate the right programmes towards improving connectivity and promoting digital literacy

Suresh Sidhu, CEO and Founder of EdgePoint Infrastructure shared, “We really want to make sure that the children in these communities get every chance they have to harness their potential. The first step is to ensure they have quality, reliable connectivity but that alone is not enough. An effective programme needs to also ensure that these children rapidly accelerate their digital literacy. EdgePoint is an expert in connectivity and partnerships with the right social organisations help us achieve the second goal. We will continue to partner with local organisations who are committed to creating brighter futures for all.”

In the Philippines, EdgePoint has partnered with Habitat for Humanity, the leading international organisation providing housing solutions for vulnerable populations in the Philippines and Indonesia. Here, EdgePoint and Habitat for Humanity Philippines are working together to establish digital education hubs at two schools, providing seamless internet connection and devices to the Southville 88 National High School in Rodriguez, Rizal, and the Teresa National High School in Teresa, Rizal.

Continuing the partnership in Indonesia, EdgePoint and Habitat for Humanity Indonesia have launched the initiative in two Junior High School at Sentolo, Central Java and the Junior High School (MTS) Maulana Ibrahim in Gresik, East Java providing seamless internet connections and fully furnished digital libraries. 

EdgePoint has also teamed up with Impact Malaysia, a social initiative operating under Impact Integrated – an NGO affiliated with the Ministry of Youth and Sports in Malaysia, leveraging on their expertise towards providing broadband connectivity and digital literacy programmes in rural schools. Kicking off the programme in Pahang and Sarawak, EdgePoint will provide resource centres in schools complete with the required digital devices as well as refurbished students’ common rooms, while also working with the local organisations to drive long term digital literacy programmes for the students. 

To date, Connectivity for Communities has facilitated connectivity for a total of 6 schools, impacting more than 5000 students. The programme is targeted to benefit another 10 more schools in 2024. 

For more information on EdgePoint, please visit https://edgepointinfra.com/  

Globe’s Hapag Movement, Lakbay Hibla unite to showcase indigenous fabric, community products

In a dazzling display of creativity and cultural homage, Globe’s Hapag Movement and Lakbay Hibla recently joined forces for a transformative fashion extravaganza celebrating the Indigenous Peoples Month.  

The awe-inspiring Lakbay Hibla Project, The IP Fabrics in Travel, highlighted the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines and creations of the Hapag Movement’s talented sewing program participants, who also modeled their products.  The Hapag Movement is a Globe of Good initiative aimed at reducing hunger and providing job opportunities to help families in need.

Organized by JCI QC Diamante with Marianas Momentous Events Management, the impressive Lakbay Hibla event held at the Hotel Lucky Chinatown aimed to promote, preserve and protect the Filipino indigenous fabrics and weaving traditions.

“The Lakbay Hibla project showcases our indigenous fabrics in traditional clothing, as well as contemporary fashion. We asked ASEAN designers to feature them in their designs to promote our woven fabrics not just locally but also in other countries,” said Dani Vicente, JCI Quezon City Diamante President. “We want to help people in a sustainable way.  We don’t want to do a one-time project.  It doesn’t matter if it’s slow as long as it’s sustainable and they can carry it out in the future without our help.”

Hayden Ng, Founder of ASEAN Fashion Designers Showcase (AFDS), echoed Vicente’s statement: “We’re trying to promote the talents and crafts of Indigenous Peoples of the Philippines more to an international platform by coming together with ASEAN designers so there is a market available for them.  It also provides a livelihood for the indigenous people.”

The one-day runway show featured a remarkable lineup of 10 ASEAN Fashion Designers Showcase #fashionambassadors, who collaborated with JCI Quezon City Diamante to unveil their latest creations. These exceptional designs were brought to life by a cast of 40 talented Filipino models, including ASEAN Fashion Designers Showcase #modelambassadors Dom Petch from Thailand and Jan Villanueva from the Philippines.

The event's success extended beyond the runway, offering the Hapag Movement’s sewing program participants a unique opportunity to display their work to a wider audience and opening doors for them in the evolving fashion landscape. The event also served as a platform for them to show that they can be a source of talented and skilled individuals in the fashion industry.

“We are delighted to collaborate with Lakbay Hibla for this event, a platform that not only spotlighted the exceptional skills of our sewing program graduates but also emphasized the Hapag Movement's dedication to driving positive transformation in the fashion industry. This partnership marks an exciting new chapter, brimming with possibilities for our graduates and the Hapag Movement, fueling our anticipation for what the future holds,” said Yoly Crisanto, Globe Group Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer. 

The partnership between Hapag Movement and Lakbay Hibla set a new standard for fashion events, proving that when creativity and social responsibility come together, the possibilities are limitless. 

To learn more about the Hapag Movement, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/globeofgood.

Jollibee Group Cited Anew in ASEAN Corporate Governance Awards

MANILA, Philippines. – The Jollibee Group has once again been awarded with a 1-Golden Arrow Recognition from the ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard (ACGS) Golden Arrow Awards, acknowledging the company’s success in responsible and transparent business practices.

Organized by the Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD), the award recognizes the top Philippine publicly listed companies in corporate governance based on the ACGS.

“Getting cited again by the ASEAN ACGS validates our dedication to integrity, accountability, and transparency, ensuring that we conduct business ethically as an organization,” said Ernesto Tanmantiong, Jollibee Group President and CEO. “This is also consistent with our commitment to strong ESG practices that are aligned with our Joy for Tomorrow Global Sustainability Agenda, in which our business success is closely linked with our ability to create a beneficial influence on both society and the planet.”

According to ICD, the Golden Arrow is awarded to companies that achieved a score of at least eighty points in the ACGS Assessment, which means the company has exhibited observable conformance with the Philippine Code of Corporate Governance and internationally recommended corporate governance practices as espoused by the ACGS.

It measures the performance of companies in the areas of facilitating the rights and the equitable treatment of shareholders, how they relate to their different stakeholders, ensuring transparency and accountability thru timely disclosure of material information, and how the board guides the company strategically, monitors the management, and ensures the board’s accountability to the company and the shareholders.

The scorecard is composed of 184 questions based on publicly available disclosures on the companies’ websites. It aims to raise the corporate governance standards and practices of the country and to make well-governed Philippine publicly listed companies attractive to investors.

1st ever ASEAN Battery and Electric Vehicle Technology Conference Aimed Towards Forging Vibrant Ecosystems and Strengthening Partnerships

Bali, Indonesia 9 May 2023 - The ASEAN Battery and Electric Vehicle Technology Conference (ABEVTC) is officially underway in Bali,  marking a significant milestone in the region's drive towards sustainable transportation. With the aim of building vibrant ecosystems and strengthening partnerships among key players in the sectors of battery and electric vehicles (EV), this inaugural event is poised to achieve some key outcomes that are set to shape the future of the industry. Running from now until 11 May, the ABEVTC is expected to attract a diverse range of participants from across the ASEAN region and beyond.

Co-organized by the Singapore Battery Consortium, the National Center for Sustainable Transportation Technology (NCSTT) from Indonesia, and the Thailand Energy Storage Technology Association (TESTA), and also supported by Hioki E.E Corporation, a Japanese manufacturer for test and measuring instruments, the three-day conference will strive to bring new opportunities, innovative ideas, and exchange of knowledge amongst the professionals, academics and policy makers from ASEAN countries, and nourish relationships among industry players to build an ASEAN community for future collaboration.

The conference will highlight the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the six leading associations in the region to explore research and development collaboration activities in the area of batteries. The parties intend to jointly develop and promote an ASEAN Battery Ecosystem that will facilitate the growth of the battery industry in the region.

The six associations are Singapore Battery Consortium (SBC), National Center for Sustainable Transportation Technology (NCSTT) from Indonesia, and Thailand Energy Storage Technology Association (TESTA), National Battery Research Institute (NBRI) (Indonesia), NanoMalaysia Berhad and Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines (EVAP). They have committed to working together to enhance the research and development capabilities of the region's battery industry, and to foster greater collaboration among industry players.

Dr. Davy Cheong, Director, Singapore Battery Consortium said, “ASEAN is an increasingly important region in the global ecosystem of battery and electric vehicle in supply chain, manufacturing and R&D.  This tie-up looks to bring various players together, to work in synergy, and provide the right platform for networking, discussions and collaborations.”

Dr. Pimpa Limthongkul, President Thailand Energy Storage Technology Association (TESTA): “The MOU signing ceremony on battery development between the 6 leading organizations in Southeast Asia is expected to help strengthen the collaboration within our region.  It will be a good starting point for us all to move together towards economic prosperity in conjunction with sustainable development in an important and fast-growing industry.”

Dr. Leonardo Gunawan, Director of NCSTT: “We are looking forward and excited to collaborate with ASEAN institutions to develop and promote the ASEAN Battery Ecosystem as a significant step towards an integrated and sustainable transportation system in Indonesia. Our partnership will advance battery technology, safety, standards, and circular economy research to build a competitive transportation industry with strong national support. This will contribute to the success and growth of the region’s energy storage industry.”

Prof. Dr. ret. Nat. Evvy Kartini, Founder of National Battery Research Institute (NBRI): “Indonesia has great potential in the battery industry, with abundant reserves of nickel, manganese, and other minerals needed for battery production. The National Battery Research Institute (NBRI) is eager to enhance national capacity by mastering technology, improving human resources, and actively advising policy. The collaboration with other ASEAN organizations will further enhance Indonesia's position as a key player in the regional battery market.”

Dr. Rezal Khairi Bin Ahmad, Chief Executive Officer of NanoMalaysia Berhad: “NanoMalaysia is excited to be part of the multilateral partnership between organizations leading the charge in EV and battery technologies in South East Asia to activate regional supply and value chains for electric vehicles components to make investment in the region more strategic and attractive and ownership of EV more affordable.”

Other important agendas that are expected at this event are a roundtable discussion on decarbonization in ASEAN between regional leading academics in the field of the battery and electrification and two panel discussions on swapping technology and the circular economy in batteries. 

Furthermore, there were keynote speeches from representatives of leading companies in the Energy Storage System & EV industry such as , UL Standards & Engagement (ULSE),  Honda R&D Co.,Ltd (Japan), Mobility Open Blockchain Initiative (MOBI), ZF Japan Co., Ltd, PT Pertamina (Persero), and PT. Energi Kreasi Bersama (Electrum) as well as sharing sessions from more than 15 industry experts from HIOKI E.E. Corporation, ANWHA (Shanghai) Automation Engineering Co., LTD, Arthur D. Little, Indonesia Battery Corporation (IBC), CADFEM SEA Pte. Ltd., ULVAC Technologies, Inc, NanoMalaysia Berhad, Advanced Remanufacturing and Technology Centre (ARTC), Malaysia Automotive, Robotics and IoT Institute (MARii), Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines (EVAP), and more. The topics for the sessions include ASEAN Battery Collaboration, ASEAN Electric Vehicle Roadmap and Development, Swappable Battery and Energy Storage Systems, Battery Circular Economy, Design & Production Technology, Safety Test and Calibration.

***

About ABEVTC

About National Center For Sustainable Transportation Technology (NCSTT)

The National Center for Sustainable Transportation Technology (NCSTT), or Pusat Pengembangan Teknologi Transportasi Berkelanjutan , is from Indonesia, and is an unique multidisciplinary research center focused on conducting, supporting and encouraging applied engineering and technology for transportation systems in Indonesia. NCSTT has been recognized globally as the research center which aims to foster the national transportation industry in developing national economics and welfare. NCSTT has built network linkages and research collaborations with national transportation stakeholders such as automotive, railway and aircraft industries, as well as research institutions and universities, both domestic and foreign.

About Singapore Battery Consortium (SBC)

The Singapore Battery Consortium (SBC) aims to foster strategic R&D partnerships amongst public research performers and industry players in the development and advancement of battery technologies. SBC aims to develop and catalyze the local ecosystem in battery related technologies through this platform. It is hosted at A*STAR’s Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), and supported by the National Research Foundation Singapore (NRF). Over the past decade, commercial interest in battery development has been on the rise, keeping pace with demand for better battery performance and different performance characteristics for increasingly complex mobility and portable devices. To meet this demand, the Singapore Battery Consortium will bring research outcomes from our laboratories into the market by enabling researchers to understand business requirements, while giving companies access to the latest battery research and technologies to augment their product development efforts.

About Thailand Energy Storage Technology Association (TESTA)

TESTA or THAILAND ENERGY STORAGE TECHNOLOGY ASSOCIATION aims to help connect stakeholders, educate public, promote understanding, and nurture technological advancements on energy storage technologies in Thailand. TESTA had been officially registered on January 25, 2021, by 5 founding institutes including National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), Khon Kaen University (KKU), King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT), King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok (KMUTNB), and Electric Vehicle Association of Thailand (EVAT). Over 60 members of the association include energy storage technology enthusiasts from various sectors ranging from academic, research institutes, public sectors, policy makers, and private industries.

About Hioki E.E Corporation

HIOKI E.E Corporation is a Japanese-based company that has been at the forefront of electrical measuring and testing equipment for over 80 years. The company is deeply committed to sustainability and has set an ambitious 2030 Beyond Measure Vision, which is aligned with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). HIOKI's 2030 Beyond Measure Vision outlines the company's long-term goals and objectives, including reducing its environmental impact, promoting diversity and inclusion, and fostering innovation.

In addition to its sustainability efforts, HIOKI is also pushing for the growth of the battery and electric vehicle (EV) industry. The company is developing cutting-edge technology that supports the production and testing of batteries, such as battery impedance testers, and is collaborating with other industry players to advance battery technology. HIOKI is also actively promoting the adoption of EVs by offering a range of products that support EV charging and battery testing. By supporting the growth of the battery and EV industry, HIOKI is contributing to the transition to a more sustainable future.

DTI Hosts the 58th ASEAN Consultative Committee on Standards and Quality (ACCSQ) Meeting in Boracay

The Department of Trade and Industry’s Bureau of Philippine Standards (DTI-BPS), under the Consumer Protection Group (CPG), successfully hosted the 58th ASEAN Consultative Committee on Standards and Quality (ACCSQ) Meeting and its Related Meetings in Boracay, Malay, Aklan on 06-09 December 2022.

The Meeting was attended by ACCSQ Leaders from the following ASEAN Member States: Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Viet Nam with the ASEAN Secretariat. The Meeting was chaired by Mr. Nou Thara, Deputy Director General, Institute of Standards Cambodia and vice-chaired by Mrs. Konny Sagala, Director, Directorate of Standard Implementation System and Conformity Assessment, National Standardization Agency of Indonesia. 

 

The Philippine Delegation was led by BPS Director Neil P. Catajay as Head of Delegation, Director Jesusa Joyce Cirunay from the Department of Health - Food and Drug Administration (DOH-FDA), Directory Romulo Aggangan from the Department of Science and Technology - Forest Products Research and Development Institute (DOST-FPRDI) together with representatives from the DTI-Philippine Accreditation Bureau (PAB), DTI-Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau (FTEB), DTI-Aklan,  DOST-Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI), and other BPS partners. 

 

 

Delegates of the 58th ACCSQ Meeting in Boracay, Philippines 

 

During the opening ceremony, DTI-CPG Undersecretary Atty. Ruth B. Castelo and the ACCSQ Chair Mr. Nou Thara provided the welcome messages to the delegates. 

 

 

DTI-CPG Undersecretary Atty. Ruth B. Castelo delivered her welcome remarks for the 58th ACCSQ Meeting via recorded video message 

 

"The ASEAN has shown resilience and perseverance amidst the pandemic. It has created purposeful measures to allow the region to recover from the effects of the pandemic. While we are on our way to recovery, it is still an uphill battle and would require enormous effort from all stakeholders. Aside from the post-pandemic effects, we are also witnessing new heights of development in the area of digital trade, and the fourth industrial revolution which present opportunities and challenges in the area of online consumer protection and product safety," underscored by Usec. Castelo. 

 

With the said developments, Usec. Catelo enjoined the ASEAN Member States to move forward together through collective and individual efforts, across different ASEAN communities: political-security, economic and socio-cultural. 

 

 

The ACCSQ Leaders, ASEAN Secretariat, and Other Delegates during the 58th ACCSQ Meeting Proper 

 

The Meeting discussed matters arising from the 57th ACCSQ Meeting, updates on the recent developments in the ASEAN Economic Integration, progress of 2022 Annual Priority (AP) Deliverables, latest updates in the signing of ASEAN legal instruments in 2022, AP Deliverables for 2023 proposed by Indonesia, the Standards and Conformance Strategic Plan 2016-2025 and Third Sector Masterplan of ASEAN Connectivity (MPAC) 2025, progress reports of ACCSQ Working Groups and Product Working Groups as well as Standards, Technical Regulations and Conformity Assessment Procedures (STRACAP) in ASEAN Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with Australia and New Zealand, China, Korea, Japan, and Canada. The ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement (ATIGA) upgrade negotiations and cooperation with Dialogue Partners were also tackled. 

 

In addition, the following Dialogue Meetings were held back-to-back with the 58th ACCSQ Meeting:  

1.      1st ACCSQ - UK Dialogue Meeting on Standards and Conformance, which highlighted UK’s overall support to ASEAN particularly for the economic sector, technical support for ACCSQ, and updates on the activities and engagements in international standards bodies; 

 

                    1st ACCSQ - UK Dialogue Meeting on Standards and Conformance 

 

2.      20th ACCSQ - EU Dialogue Meeting on Standards and Conformance, which discussed the overall support from EU to ASEAN and the progress of the ASEAN Regional Integration Support from EU (ARISE Plus); and 

 

              20th ACCSQ - EU Dialogue Meeting on Standards and Conformance 

 

3.      8th ASEAN Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership (AJCEP) Sub-Committee on STRACAP Meeting, which discussed the progress of ASEAN activities and projects in cooperation with Japan particularly the ASEAN-Japan Partnership Program for Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) and Safety Conformity Assessment of Multi-Media Equipment (MME) and the development of ASEAN Common Qualification Scheme for Quality Control Experts. 

 

                  8th ASEAN Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership (AJCEP) Sub-Committee on STRACAP Meeting 

 

The IEC Asia-Pacific Regional Centre (IEC-APRC) also provided updates to the Meeting on IEC's latest activities and programs. 

 

The ACCSQ is a sectoral body under the purview of the ASEAN Economic Ministers that is tasked to reduce, if not to remove, technical barriers to trade in order to realize the goals of the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA). It was established to harmonize national standards with international standards, implement mutual recognition arrangements on conformity assessment, and develop harmonized regulatory regimes. 

 

The DTI-BPS functions as the Philippines’ lead agency to the ACCSQ. As lead, the DTI-BPS represents the country in the programs and events of the ACCSQ Leaders on standards and conformity assessment procedures and coordinates with other government agencies and the private sector involved in the activities of the Working Groups (WGs) and Product Working Groups (PWGs) under the ACCSQ. 

 

For more updates and information on standards, technical regulations, and conformity assessment procedures (STRACAP), please visit the BPS website (www.bps.dti.gov.ph). Emails and messages may also be sent to bps@dti.gov.ph or through the official BPS Facebook page (facebook.com/PHstandards).

DTI Investment Roadshow in Osaka eyes more Japanese Investors

Osaka, Japan, 22 November 2022 — Following the successful series of investment promotion activities in Tokyo and Nagoya, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Offices in Japan — Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC) in Osaka and the Philippine Board of Investments (BOI) recently concluded a Philippine Investment Roadshow in Osaka City which aims to seek potential Japanese investors to expand their operations in the Philippines, last 18 November, 2022.

Several high-profile activities constituted the investment roadshow, starting with meetings with PTIC Osaka’s important strategic partners such as with officials of Resona Bank, Ltd. and the Osaka International Business Promotion Center. This was followed by a high-level Philippine Investment Round Table Meeting hosted by Resona Bank at their Osaka headquarters, attended by major Kansai-based companies, many of which already have operations in the country.

DTI Undersecretary (Vice Minister) and Board of Investments (BOI) Managing Head, Ceferino S. Rodolfo, delivered the Keynote Presentation at the Investment Round Table, where he discussed the strategic investment opportunities in key sectors particularly for Japanese companies, government incentives, and the country’s comparative advantages.

During the forum, Undersecretary Rodolfo discussed the current economic outlook, strategic opportunities for Japanese manufacturing players, and the country’s menu of investment incentives and programs. Additionally, he highlighted the countries’ exceptional performance as it recovered from the negative effects of the pandemic, especially as the manufacturing industry, rose to being second in ASEAN in January to October 2022. PH exports also grew by 14.4% and foreign direct investments (FDI) by 82% in 2021.

He also cited game-changing key policy reforms offering to provide valuable investment incentives and programs to reduce cost of doing business in the Philippines such as the: Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprise (CREATE) act, the amendments made to the Retail Trade Liberalization Act (RTLA), Foreign Investment Act (FIA), and Public Services Act (PSA) which are all envisioned to attract more Japanese participation in the country’s FDI pipeline.
Deputy Consul General Melchor Lalunio of the Philippine Consulate General in Osaka delivered the closing remarks at the Philippine Investment Round Table Meeting, encouraging Japanese companies to explore investment possibilities in the country.

In addition to the executives representing various companies at the round-table meeting, PTIC Osaka also organized a series of one-on-one meetings for the Undersecretary and the BOI executive Directors, with top executives of various Kansai-based Japanese companies, which all announced their plans to expand their operations and infuse additional investments into the country. These companies belonged to key manufacturing sectors such as precision metal parts and components, high-end garments manufacturing, precision plastics and components, and software development among others, two of which signified their intention to establish manufacturing facilities in CALABARZON, in addition to existing facilities in Cebu.

PTIC Osaka has identified several priority sectors (such as automotive industry manufacturing and EV, innovation and R&D, Agriculture modernization, pharmaceutical and life sciences, infrastructure development, among others) and key strategies in the delivery of its trade and investment promotion mandates, among them, aggressive promotion of the Philippines as a preferred destination for Japanese supply chain players, mostly belonging to the Small and Medium Enterprise bracket, which comprise 99.7% of all Japanese companies.

This is particularly important as there is a pressing need to significantly improve the country’s manufacturing supply and value chain ecosystem to support the presence of major manufacturing conglomerates already operating in the country, as well as to attract the entry of new players and reduce dependence on importation in the sourcing of manufacturing imports and raw materials.

Experience Southeast Asia with these ASEAN-Made Products

MANILA, AUGUST 9, 2021 - Did you know that ASEAN countries are home to some of the most creative entrepreneurs and sellers? This is definitely something to be proud of! And the good news is, you can immerse yourself in a variety of cultures by exploring products from the Philippines and our neighboring countries. At the ASEAN Online Sale, Shopee definitely has you covered with some of the greatest finds across Southeast Asia! 

To celebrate ASEAN’s 54th anniversary, Shopee takes its shoppers on a trip around the region with amazing deals. From August 8 to 10, check out some of the best products at the ASEAN Online Sale, with discounts up to 75% off:

For the Fashionistas

Morena and proud! Embrace your natural beauty while flaunting your Fabcase Phone Case that’s designed with beautiful illustrations of morena Pinays. Each case comes with a matching phone grip to prevent your phone from slipping. It’s also printed with a matte finish from edge to edge, giving it a neat, classy, and stylish look.

Stow your personal belongings in style with this handy Adventure Belt Bag. Made with high-quality faux leather that can be used as a belt and body bag, it’s the perfect companion for quick errands. 

Fashion meets function with this multipurpose scarf from Thailand--  it’s just what you need to stay protected from the sun when cycling outside or even to just keep your hair out of your face while working out from home!

Look fashionably cute even while at home! Whether you’re working from home or planning to do a quick workout session, slip into this pair of Terry cotton Boyfriend Shorts, made by Filipino tailors, for a comfier feel. 

Show off a traditional pair of slides with a modern twist! Step into these Indiana Jane Abaca Mules, which features a closed-toe design with soles made out of abaca. The material is a local plant-derived fiber which is very durable, making it perfect for everyday use.

For the Skin and Beauty Guru

Go au naturel on skin care with this Herbal Kasoy Cream. Made of pure kasoy oil, this locally formulated cream contains anacardic acids, which help treat skin lesions such as moles, warts, kulogo, kalyo, skin tags, and other skin problems. It’s also formulated with shea butter to help the skin heal faster. 

Don’t panic, it’s organic! With its formulation of turmeric, moringa, guava, lemon, stevia, guyabano, virgin coconut oil, and menthol herb arvensis, local favorite Aromagicare Therapy Oil provides external relief from abdominal pain, arthritis, back pain, burns, cramps, dizziness, fatigue, and other types of discomfort. 

Say goodbye to neck or shoulder pains with the Tiger Balm Neck & Shoulder Rub. This pocket-sized pain reliever from Singapore claims to “work where it hurts.” With its calming scent and soothing formulation, this is definitely a must-have in your bag no matter your age. 

Infused with almond oil, sunflower oil, and aloe vera extract, the proudly Filipino-made Colourette Blur Balm smoothens, protects, and hydrates your lips from drying out. Apply generously on your lips to prep them before swiping on your favorite lipstick to prolong color wear. You can also wear it as an overnight lip treatment!

For the food lovers 

 

Rainy weather calls for some hot and spicy comfort food to warm up your stomach. Give in to your cravings with Indomie Mi Goreng, which are instant noodles inspired by the beloved traditional Indonesian fried noodle dish. It’s also perfect for vegetarians! 

Tickle your tastebuds with the bold flavors of Thai food straight from the comfort of your own homes! With Real Thai Tom Yum Soup Paste, you can easily capture the flavors of the popular hot and spicy soup without having to look for the mass of ingredients it normally takes to prepare. Simply mix this paste in a pot of boiling water and add your aromatics, protein, and vegetables of choice.

Get as close as possible to the historic coffee shops at Ipoh with the popular Malaysian Hazelnut White Coffee Mix. Made with Old Town’s signature blend of Arabica, Robusta, and Liberica beans, each cup is guaranteed to be smooth, full-bodied, creamy, and perfectly nutty - just what you need to get your coffee fix on a rainy day.

Discover more Southeast Asian products at Shopee’s ASEAN Online Sale, by visiting https://shopee.ph/m/2021-asean-online-sale.  

To save more on purchases during the ASEAN Online Sale, use ShopeePay to enjoy daily free shipping and coins cashback. Get up to 15% cashback when you pay your electricity, water, and internet bills, and up to 25% bills cashback for new users. Top up your ShopeePay wallet through your debit card, online banking, or over-the-counter payment partners.

Download the Shopee app for free via the App Store or Google Play.

###

About Shopee

Shopee is the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia & Taiwan. Shopee connects shoppers, brands, and sellers across Asia and other fast-growing markets, empowering anyone to buy and sell anywhere and at any time. 

Shopee offers an easy, secure, and engaging experience that is enjoyed by millions of people daily. It offers a wide product assortment, supported by integrated payments and logistics, as well as popular entertainment features tailored for each market. Shopee is also a key contributor to the region’s digital economy with a firm commitment to helping brands and entrepreneurs succeed in e-commerce.

Shopee is a part of Sea Limited (NYSE:SE), a leading global consumer internet company. In addition to Shopee, Sea’s other core businesses include its digital entertainment arm, Garena, and digital financial services arm, SeaMoney. Sea’s mission is to better the lives of consumers and small businesses with technology.

About ShopeePay

ShopeePay is an integrated mobile wallet that offers users easy access to digital payment services. Launched in the Philippines in 2019, ShopeePay enables a seamless shopping experience by allowing users to make online payments on Shopee, top-up their wallets, and transfer and withdraw funds.

ShopeePay makes it easier to shop and do business. It provides users with a convenient, secure, and rewarding payment option; it empowers businesses and helps them capture new opportunities. 

ShopeePay is part of SeaMoney, the digital financial services arm of Sea Group. A leading digital payments and financial se