Philippines promotes digital innovation at APEC meet 

The Philippines called on its neighbors' trade ministers to advance digital innovation, open trade and sustainable growth during the recent Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Ministers Responsible for Trade (MRT) Meeting in Jeju, South Korea, according to a report by Philippine News Agency.

In a statement Monday, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque highlighted the country’s push for a rules-based global trading system that promotes fairness, transparency and inclusivity.

“The Philippines stands firm in promoting an open, rules-based multilateral trading system that upholds fairness, transparency, and inclusivity -- crucial to building resilient and inclusive economies. We remain concerned with actions that jeopardize global supply chains, raise trade costs and erode confidence in the multilateral system,” Roque said during the APEC MRT Meeting held May 15.

Roque stressed the potential of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies in reshaping global trade, citing how the Philippines is investing in digital and creative industries, supported by landmark legislation and programs for workforce development.

“AI and emerging technologies offer an unprecedented opportunity to redefine global trade. It is imperative that we create an empowering digital environment, one that is secure, inclusive and prosperous,” she said.

The DTI chief called for stronger regional cooperation to address challenges in the global digital landscape, such as the digital divide, data privacy concerns, cybersecurity threats and regulatory fragmentation.

During the APEC trade ministers’ discussion on the multilateral trading system, Roque emphasized the need for reforms in the World Trade Organization’s dispute settlement mechanism and urged continued negotiations on agriculture and fisheries subsidies.

She encouraged APEC economies to align trade policies with environmental protection and social well-being, advocating for a whole-of-nation approach to achieve sustainable and resilient economies.

"It is crucial to engage with a wide range of stakeholders, including businesses, civil society and the scientific community, to ensure that trade policies are informed by the latest knowledge and best practices,” she said.

Roque shared the country’s regulatory reforms and infrastructure investments aimed at reducing logistics costs and improving efficiency.

She added that under the Marcos administration, the Philippines is actively engaging with regional and global partners to foster a more inclusive, innovative and sustainable trading environment, aligned with APEC’s core values of cooperation, openness and shared prosperity.