The Philippines joined 20 other Asia-Pacific economies in Gyeongju, South Korea, for the 2025 APEC Economic Leaders’ Week (AELW), held from October 27 to November 1. The high-level summit focused on the theme “Building a Sustainable Tomorrow Together”, with discussions centered on innovation, connectivity, and inclusive prosperity across the region.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. led the Philippine delegation, participating in key meetings and bilateral engagements aimed at strengthening regional ties and attracting strategic investments. He also addressed the APEC CEO Summit at the Gyeongju Arts Center, emphasizing the Philippines’ commitment to digital transformation, sustainable development, and economic resilience.

During the APEC Ministerial Meeting (AMM), Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro and Trade Undersecretary Allan B. Gepty represented the country in talks on demographic shifts, artificial intelligence, and creative industries as new engines of growth. The Philippines also reaffirmed its commitment to regional trade agreements, including the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).

The summit culminated in the adoption of the 2025 APEC Leaders’ Gyeongju Declaration, which outlined shared priorities under the pillars of Connect, Innovate, Prosper. Leaders acknowledged the challenges facing the global trading system and pledged to enhance cooperation in areas such as climate action, digital inclusion, and supply chain resilience.

Beyond official meetings, President Marcos and First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos met with the Filipino community in Busan, celebrating cultural ties and reaffirming support for overseas Filipinos. The event was marked by music, camaraderie, and a renewed sense of national pride.

As the Philippines looks ahead to its own hosting of international summits in the coming years, its active role in APEC 2025 signals a continued commitment to shaping a more connected and sustainable Asia-Pacific region.

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