MANILA – During his participation in the 8th APEC Economic Leaders Meeting in Thailand next week, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. will call the attention of economic leaders on the response the region must take amid challenges on food security, energy, and climate change.
In a press briefing on Monday, Nov. 7, Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary Eric Gerardo Tamayo stated that the President is expected to push for APEC to revitalize its role as a driver of global economic growth, especially now that the region tries to recover from the series of disruption the pandemic has caused.
“Definitely, the President will push for APEC revitalizing its role as a driver of global economic growth. If you may recall, prior to the pandemic, the Asia Pacific region have been the significant driver of global economic growth, this economic growth trajectory was disrupted by Covid-19 pandemic so the challenge before us is to facilitate the rapid recovery of economies arising from the pandemic and to undertake the necessary measures to counter disruptive forces that affect the current economic situation around the globe,” Tamayo said.
According to the Foreign Affairs official, Marcos will stress the need to “future proof” the region in order to respond to global disruptions.
The President, he stated, will call the attention of economists to respond to various global issues affecting the region.
“The President will be calling attention to the need to ensure food security, energy security and also the robust response of APEC economies to the challenges of climate change,” Tamayo said.
Leaders from 21 APEC economies during the summit will discuss sustainable trade and investment, reconnecting the region and charting paths towards post-pandemic recovery and inclusive and sustainable growth.
Office of the Press Secretary (OPS) officer-in-charge Undersecretary Cheloy Garafil stated that besides food and energy security and climate change mitigation, Marcos will also push for the country’s economic agenda and priorities which include empowerment of MSMEs and their inclusion in global value chains, recognition of essential role of maritime crews and seafarers in ensuring stable and resilient supply chains.
Marcos will also participate in the APEC CEO Summit, a meeting of top business leaders in the region, during his participation in the APEC summit.
To discuss business opportunities, investments, and expansion plans, the chief executive will meet with top executives of Thai companies.
He will also get the opportunity to meet with economic leaders to discuss bilateral relations and explore avenues for mutual economic benefits.
In addition, the President will meet with the Filipino community in Thailand.
He will attend the APEC Summit from November 16 to 19.
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