Manila Bulletin - Business groups sign digital pact for 2026 ASEAN summit

Manila is preparing for its role as host of the 2026 ASEAN Summit with a new partnership aimed at accelerating digital transformation across Southeast Asia. The Private Sector Advisory Council-Digital Infrastructure (PSAC-DI), the ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC), and GoDigital Philippines have formalized an agreement to drive regional digital inclusion and the adoption of artificial intelligence.

Accelerating Digital Growth in the Region

The memorandum of agreement, signed on February 20, 2026, establishes a framework for policy dialogue, stakeholder consultations, and joint programmes. These initiatives will focus on digital infrastructure, AI adoption, and economic inclusion throughout the region. The partnership is set to run through December 2026.

Aligning Public and Private Sectors

The collaboration seeks to align private-sector initiatives with the Philippine government’s agenda for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) and broader regional digital-economy integration. PSAC-DI Sector Lead Myla Villanueva, ASEAN-BAC Philippines Chair Jose Ma. “Joey” Concepcion III, and GoDigital Philippines Chair Mark S. Gorriceta led the agreement signing.

Did You Know? The partnership arrives as the Philippine government pushes for modernized digital services to bolster its competitive standing, with digital trade projected to be a primary driver of GDP growth in the region over the next decade.

The timing of this partnership is significant, as the Philippines aims to modernize its digital services and strengthen its competitive position in the region. Villanueva stated the private sector is prepared to support the country’s role as the 2026 ASEAN host, aiming to translate digital transformation into opportunities for local businesses and communities.

Focus on MSME Development and Policy

The organizations involved will facilitate consultations and working groups to address challenges in digital adoption. Specific provisions within the agreement support MSME development through knowledge-sharing and capacity-building, integrating smaller Filipino enterprises into the regional supply chain. Collaboration on policy inputs and industry sponsorships will also ensure the 2026 ASEAN Summit showcases the country’s technological advancements.

Expert Insight: This partnership represents a strategic effort to leverage private sector expertise in concert with government priorities. By proactively addressing bottlenecks in digital adoption and fostering MSME integration, the Philippines is positioning itself to capitalize on the projected growth of the digital economy in Southeast Asia.

The Philippines has experienced a surge in digital investment, with both the government and private sector allocating funds to connectivity and data centre infrastructure. The PSAC, comprised of top business leaders, has played a key role in coordinating these investments with national policy.

The partnership will also focus on identifying speakers and mobilizing resources for international forums, keeping the Philippine digital agenda central during its ASEAN chairmanship. This alignment is expected to streamline the implementation of technologies like AI, while prioritizing cybersecurity and regional interoperability.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary goal of this partnership?

The primary goal is to accelerate regional digital transformation as Manila prepares to host the 2026 ASEAN Summit, focusing on digital infrastructure, AI adoption, and economic inclusion.

Who are the key organizations involved?

The key organizations involved are the Private Sector Advisory Council-Digital Infrastructure (PSAC-DI), the ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC), and GoDigital Philippines.

What is the timeframe for this partnership?

The partnership is set to run through December 2026.

As the Philippines prepares to lead the ASEAN Summit in 2026, how might this collaborative effort shape the broader regional digital landscape?

Manila Bulletin – Business groups sign digital pact for 2026 ASEAN summit