Marcos pushes for inclusive, future-ready APEC

President Marcos yesterday pushed for measures aimed at making the Asia-Pacific region inclusive and future-ready as it faces challenges brought about by a changing economic environment.

- By ALEXIS ROMERO

In his intervention during an informal dialogue with fellow Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) leaders, Marcos said the global economy's stability is being challenged by intensifying geopolitical tensions, technological disruptions, supply chain vulnerability, protectionism and "unwarranted economic competition."

The region is also facing a period "where policymaking in itself is also being challenged," he added.

"For the Philippines, we do recognize that the global economic environment has changed. We face challenges now that may not have been contemplated or foreseen when our rules-based system was conceptualized - thus, the need for us to be responsive, dynamic and forward-looking," Marcos said.

"As we grapple to address these challenges, let us not lose sight of our objectives to bring growth, inclusivity and sustainability to our region, as well as the core principles of openness, nondiscrimination and transparency."

Marcos called for deeper regional economic cooperation, saying APEC's enduring strength lies in its capacity to bridge differences, build capacities and foster trust. He gave assurance that the Philippines is ready to work with all APEC economies and partners to uphold an "open, connected and future-ready region" that remains resilient both in times of uncertainty and in the pursuit of shared prosperity.