RCEP signing to benefit more ASEAN industries
With the expected signing of Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) of the 15-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) today, more areas in the region will benefit from it, said Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez on Saturday. According to him, the partnership on RCEP has finally been concluded and finalized by all Trade ministers of participating […] The post RCEP signing to benefit more ASEAN industries appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Entrepreneurship eyed in SHS curriculum
The possibility of including entrepreneurship as a subject in the current senior high school curriculum is underway, said Go Negosyo chairperson Joey Concepcion following a meeting with Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte. Concepcion discussed with the Vice President several avenues in which entrepreneurship skills can be included in the school curriculum, among them through direct mentoring by veteran entrepreneurs, and another is through the help of private companies, specifically those engaged in the agriculture sector. “Our idea is if we open up this avenue to young people, there would be a way for them to find an alternative path to success,” Concepcion said. Under the current curriculum, Filipino children in public schools attend a minimum of 13 years under the K-12 program. An average of four more years would be added if the student decides to pursue higher education,” the Go Negosyo chairman said in a statement on Thursday. He added that not all families have the resources to support children through the completion of the entire curriculum, noting that “We could help these young people find their path, focus on it, and maybe one day the students can turn it into a business.” He said that there are many successful entrepreneurs who succeed even without the benefit of higher education. Concepcion noted that among the possible paths that were discussed in which entrepreneurship can be incorporated into the curriculum is through proven mentoring programs that are already being implemented by Go Negosyo. One of these is through roadshows in which a successful entrepreneur is sent to mentor the students at their respective schools; another way is for students to observe actual mentoring with active and aspiring entrepreneurs. Moreover, he said Go Negosyo has employed different methods of reaching out to potential entrepreneurs. It has conducted plenary events targeted toward women, the youth, OFWs, as well as thematic events that focus on introducing MSMEs to digital platforms and to opportunities offered by the tourism sector. During the pandemic, it ported its mentoring programs to social media and conferencing platforms, enabling it to continue mentoring entrepreneurs in the provinces and even across the ASEAN region. The post Entrepreneurship eyed in SHS curriculum appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Phl, Saudi agreements will benefit 15,000 Filipinos — Marcos
RIYADH, Saudi Arabia – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday said that several agreements worth more than $120 million between Saudi Arabia and the Philippines will benefit more than 15,000 Filipinos soon. During a roundtable meeting with Saudi business leaders here, Marcos said the agreements represent a significant step in strengthening the cooperation between the two countries. The agreements were signed during Marcos' first official visit to Saudi Arabia since assuming the Presidency in June 2022. The agreements cover a wide range of professions in the construction industry, including engineering, architecture, and healthcare. "This meeting happens at such an opportune time as the Philippine economy continues its high growth trajectory," the President said. "To our current and future business partners, I hope this meeting has served as an excellent platform for building greater and closer partnerships between the Philippines and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia," he added. He then thanked to the Saudi Ministry of Investment and the Saudi business leaders for their support and confidence in the Philippines and the Filipino people. Marcos Jr. assured that the Philippine government is steadfast in its commitment to continuously supporting current and prospective Saudi investors. He also urged the Saudi business leaders present at the meeting to "further make it happen in the Philippines." Marcos also thanked the Saudi government for its support to the Philippines. He said the two countries have a long history of friendship and partnership, and he is confident that this relationship will continue to grow in the years to come. The signing of the agreements is part of the Philippine government's efforts to expand job opportunities for the Filipinos. The government has also been working to improve the working conditions of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). In recent years, Saudi Arabia has become one of the most popular destinations for OFWs. There are currently over one million Filipinos living and working in the country. The President's visit to Saudi Arabia is part of his efforts to strengthen economic ties with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The Philippines is a member of the ASEAN-GCC Summit, which the Kingdom is currently hosting. The post Phl, Saudi agreements will benefit 15,000 Filipinos — Marcos appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PEZA cheers signing of PH-FTA deal as investment approvals increase 180% in September
Pasay City – Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) Director General Tereso O. Panga said on Thursday that it is optimistic to receive more investors from South Korea with the signing of the Philippines-South Korea Free Trade Agreement (FTA) on the sidelines of the 43rd Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and Related Summits in Jakarta, Indonesia. According to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., “The signing of the FTA is a testament to the realization of many opportunities for complementation and collaboration between the Philippines and South Korea, and an even greater milestone for our economic friendship.” Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual also noted that “for the Philippines, this FTA serves as a clear demonstration of the intent to elevate the current bilateral relations with South Korea to a stronger strategic partnership. The Philippines’ engagement with South Korea is built on trade through market access, economic cooperation, and investments through collaboration in targeted sectors such as critical minerals and supply chains.” Echoing these, Panga stated that “With South Korea’s status as the 10th largest GDP in the world and 2nd most technologically advanced nation (next to Germany), the Philippines stands to benefit from this FTA which opens more opportunities for investors, increased market access, FDI inflows, higher value-added production and export diversification combined with deeper economic cooperation and innovation partnership.” PEZA is also seeing an influx of FDIs coming from South Korea for the year. Panga said, “We are seeing an increasing trend with more South Korean investments coming in the country. Last year, we have approved a total of Php 1.019 Billion investments from South Korean projects and for our performance this year, we already generated a total of Php 1.413 Billion investments from South Korea. We are looking forward to welcoming more investments from them, especially from industries unique to the country.” As of June 2023, PEZA has a total of 246 registered projects from South Korea which generate Php 92.190 Billion investments, US$ 736.454 Million exports, and 40,688 employments. The post PEZA cheers signing of PH-FTA deal as investment approvals increase 180% in September appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
The vital role of ASEAN
The ASEAN-UN Comprehensive Partnership is more important than ever. We face tests as far as the eye can see — from the climate emergency to a global cost-of-living crisis, raging conflicts and growing poverty, hunger, and inequalities. All these challenges are aggravated by rising geopolitical tensions. There is a real risk of fragmentation — of a Great Fracture in world economic and financial systems, with diverging strategies on technology and artificial intelligence and conflicting security frameworks. I commend ASEAN for your vital role in building bridges of understanding all over the world. ASEAN has played an extremely important role as a center that convenes all those that, unfortunately, represent the most dramatic divisions in today’s world and these series of summits is a demonstration of that fundamental convening role of ASEAN. And we need it in a world that is increasingly multipolar and that requires strong multilateral institutions to go with it — based on equity, solidarity and universality. I am grateful for your steadfast support for multilateral solutions and your contribution of over 5,000 peacekeepers from ASEAN countries. ASEAN’s convening power, commitment to dialogue and experience in conflict prevention are crucial pillars of stability. Today, tensions remain high from the Korean Peninsula to the South China Sea. I am grateful to ASEAN member states for your pursuit of dialogue and peaceful dispute resolution, rooted in the respect for international law, including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. Since we gathered last year, the situation in Myanmar has further deteriorated. Brutal violence, worsening poverty and systematic repression are crushing hopes for a return to democracy. The conflict is exacerbating existing inequalities and vulnerabilities faced by women and girls, including sexual violence, forced marriage and human trafficking. More and more people are crossing borders in a desperate search for safety and protection and the situation is untenable. Over one million Rohingya remain in Bangladesh, in the world’s largest refugee camp. And, regrettably, the conditions for their safe, voluntary and dignified return are not yet in sight. Much more is needed. My call to the military authorities of Myanmar is clear: Free all detained leaders and political prisoners; open the door toward the full restoration of democratic rule. We must also end our assault against the planet. ASEAN ranks amongst the most biodiversity-rich regions — and is highly vulnerable to natural disasters. We can still limit the worst impacts and meet the goals of the Paris Agreement. ASEAN is uniquely positioned to be a leader of an energy transition that is global, sustainable, just, inclusive and equitable. I commend ASEAN member states that are pioneering Just Energy Transition Partnerships like Indonesia and Viet Nam. And I commend all who are accelerating the phaseout of coal and jumpstarting a fair and inclusive renewables revolution. But greater ambition is needed still — along with much greater support. Developed countries must finally deliver on their commitments to developing countries. Resources are also central to rescuing the Sustainable Development Goals. I have called for deep and structural changes to make global frameworks — including the Bretton Woods system — more representative of today’s economic and political realities and also more responsive. Such change will not happen overnight — and I have proposed concrete steps we can take now, including an SDG Stimulus of US$500 billion a year to the benefit of developing countries for them to be able to reach the Sustainable Goals. This and other action would catalyze SDG progress and help developing economies invest in key transitions across energy, food systems, digital, education, health, decent jobs and social protection. I count on ASEAN member states to help raise global ambition in the vital months ahead. And you can always count on my wholehearted support to shape a future of peace and prosperity for the people of Southeast Asia and the world. *** Excerpts from the UN Secretary-General’s remarks at the ASEAN-UN Summit, 7 September 2023. The post The vital role of ASEAN appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Digitizing a must — Concepcion
Honing and making micro, small and medium enterprises fully engrossed with digitization is now a must for every country in the ASEAN Region to fully realize the expanding opportunities presented by digital transformation, according to ASEAN-Business Advisory Council Philippines chairperson Joey Concepcion. “The power of digitalization is there; we just have to use it. It’s time that we really focus on the objective of greater prosperity, especially for those at the bottom of the pyramid, using whatever tools we have,” Concepcion said during a panel discussion on ASEAN’s Digital Powerhouse at the Nexus of Connectivity and Transformation in Jakarta, Indonesia on Sunday. “We must enable MSMEs to use digitalization to their advantage. Digital growth is seen to boost cross-border e-commerce by providing MSMEs with access to new markets and is hoped to promote financial inclusion to underserved populations,” he added. Further, Concepcion noted that although the rapid growth of digital adoption in the ASEAN bodes well for the region’s economies, its growth must be inclusive, with MSMEs being crucial to sustainable growth, to fully realize the expanding opportunities presented by digital transformation. “All of these tools are important to uplift the lives of our people. That’s why we are here: how do we solve big problems, especially for those who are at the bottom of the pyramid,” he said, pointing out that four of the 10 countries in the ASEAN have nearly a fifth of their populations still living in poverty. Region’s biggest tech players The session gathered some of the region’s biggest technology players, as well as key stakeholders from leading multinational companies, global financial institutions, and government organizations. The session delved into the development of strategic policies — including financial technology, e-trade, and cross-border trade facilitation. “The power of digital has to be used. The crisis pushed people to use these tools and this is one of the reasons we in the ASEAN BAC Philippines proposed to sign an MoU with each ASEAN country to focus on sectors that will bring development, specifically agriculture and MSMEs,” he said. He also pointed out that digitalization will stand to benefit even the one-man businesses — also known as nanopreneurs — who now have a better chance at succeeding because they have access to marketing tools and digital payment solutions. “We are the big brothers. Unless we embrace the MSMEs in our value chain this is going to take a long time. That is our mission as ASEAN BAC heads, to see to it that greater prosperity is achieved,” he said. Private sector feedback The ASEAN BAC was organized to provide private sector feedback and guidance to boost ASEAN’s efforts towards economic integration. It was said in the discussion that ASEAN has emerged as the world’s fastest-growing Internet market, with a 40 percent annual growth in the value of e-commerce between 2016 and 2021. Further, it is set to become the world’s fastest-growing digital market driven by a growing consumer market and the rapid adoption of social commerce platforms by its population. “This growth must be inclusive to unlock the benefits. It must be used to enable MSMEs,” he said. Phl case cited Concepcion cited the Philippines case as an example of how digital technology has helped MSMEs compete with big corporations and gave birth to a thriving digital economy that was further hastened by the pandemic lockdowns. Aside from Concepcion, other speakers in the session were Sam Myers, deputy trade commissioner for Asia Pacific (Southeast Asia) at the UK Department for Business and Trade; Haslina Taib, CEO of Dynamic Technologies; Yuem Kuan Moon, CEO of Singtel; and Kok Ping Soon, CEO of Singapore Business Federation. Bank of Indonesia Governor Dr. Perry Warijjyo, Temasek Holdings CEO Dilhan Pillay Sandrasegara; and Japan External Trade Organization Chairman Ishiguro Norihiko delivered keynote remarks, while ASEAN-BAC Indonesia Policy Manager for Digital Transformation Yohanes Lukiman gave a policy presentation. The post Digitizing a must — Concepcion appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PBBM to reiterate ‘rules-based int’l order’ for SCS at ASEAN Summit
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is set to reiterate the need for a rules-based international order in the South China Sea at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, amid increasing tensions between the Philippine and Chinese coast guards in the West Philippine Sea. Marcos made this remark as he left Manila on Monday bound for Jakarta, Indonesia, to attend the 43rd ASEAN Summit and Related Summits. Marcos said he will also bring up issues on strengthening food security, calling for climate justice, tapping the potential of the digital and creative economies, protecting migrant workers in crisis situations as well as combatting human trafficking in the region. “Once again, I will use his opportunity to advance Philippine priorities in ASEAN and work with our other ASEAN member states not only in addressing the complex challenges facing the region but also in pursuing opportunities for ASEAN as an epicenter of growth,” Marcos said. Marcos said there will be discussions covering developments in the South China Sea, the situation in Myanmar and the conflict in Ukraine during the ASEAN Plus 3 and East Asia Summits. “I will also take the opportunity to meet the bilateral partners at the sidelines of the SEAN summit to advance cooperation that will benefit our national priorities,” he said. Marcos said his administration would continue to ensure that the Philippines’ “constructive engagements with ASEAN, dialogue partners and stakeholders” will serve the national interest of the country and the well-being of the Filipino people. The post PBBM to reiterate ‘rules-based int’l order’ for SCS at ASEAN Summit appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Phl to benefit from world’s transition to clean energy
The Philippines is certain to benefit from efforts of countries wanting to transition into clean energy, given the country’s vast resources of carbon and nickel ores, according to Trade and Industry Secretary Alfredo Pascual. Participating in the session on Global Supply Chain and Sustainable Investment, organized by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific or UNESCAP in Jakarta, Indonesia on Saturday, Pascual cited the growing interest in critical minerals due to the global trend to transition to clean energy. Great potential He stressed that this trend offers great potential for the Philippines given the country’s vast mineral resources such as copper and nickel ores. Pascual also emphasized that the Philippines is now going in the direction of manufacturing electric vehicles from downstream processing of nickel ores to finished products. This will also complement the country’s comparative advantage in semiconductor and manpower skills, specifically the abundance of the young, dynamic, and tech-savvy Filipino workforce, he said. Pascual and his fellow panelists also discussed the possible effects of “deglobalization” particularly with regards to its impact on trade and investments as well as the need to diversify production locations and finding alternative materials to ensure supply chain resilience. Cooperation Meanwhile, in his meeting with UNESCAP Executive Secretary Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana at the sidelines of the ASEAN Investment Forum, Pascual aired his gratitude for the assistance of the UN body in the areas of trade, trade facilitation, micro, small and medium enterprises, as well as in aligning the implementation of AmBisyon Natin 2040 with the country’s achievement of Sustainable Development Goals. The two leaders also indicated that they’re looking forward to furthering cooperation through initiatives in the digital economy and digital infrastructure, including space technology and innovation. The UNESCAP, which was established in 1947 with headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand, aims to promote regional cooperation and integration in the Asia-Pacific region to achieve inclusive and sustainable development. The post Phl to benefit from world’s transition to clean energy appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DA, DSWD accept 300MT rice donation from Japan for Mayon evacuees
Department of Agriculture Senior Undersecretary Domingo Panganiban on Saturday said the department has formally accepted the 300-metric ton milled rice donation by Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries under the ASEAN Plus Three Emergency Rice Reserve (APTERR) Tier 3 Program on 17 August 2023 in Camalig, Albay. Panganiban said the donated rice is intended for the families affected by the Mayon Volcano eruption and was turned over by the Japanese Embassy in the Philippines Minister for Economic Affairs Nihei Daisuke to APTERR Secretariat General Manager Choomjet Kernjanakesorn. It was then accepted by Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Director Michael Christopher Mathay, and DA - National Food Authority (NFA) Special Assistant to the Administrator Roger Navarro. The officials also launched the distribution of the 300-MT milled rice stocks equivalent to 10,000 30-kilogram bags to the affected families identified by the DSWD. “We are not merely witnessing the ceremonial exchange of rice donation but more so the exchange of hope and support from our dependable partners in the ASEAN Region. This contribution is a testament to the unbreakable bond that binds us together as a global community,” Panganiban said. On behalf of the Philippine government, the DA official thanked the Government of Japan and the APTERR Secretariat for the donation that will benefit 10,000 families displaced by the calamity. The family beneficiaries in Daraga, Camalig, Guinobatan, Tabaco City, Malilipot, Sto. Domingo, and Ligao City will receive 30-kilogram bags of rice. From the 10,000 beneficiaries, at least 1,441 shall be granted rice assistance through the DSWD’s Food for Work Program in the affected areas. The APTERR is a regional cooperation scheme among 10 ASEAN member states plus three countries that include China, Japan, and South Korea. The cooperation aims at strengthening food security and reducing poverty in East Asia. Other officials present during the activity include APTERR Secretariat Japanese Expert and MAFF-Japan Representative Akinori Ando, Albay Governor Edcel Greco Lagman, Camalig Mayor Carlos Irwin Baldo Jr., and NFA Acting Assistant Regional Manager Gerard Lim. The post DA, DSWD accept 300MT rice donation from Japan for Mayon evacuees appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
US-ASEAN Business Council: US companies eager to foster Phl business connections
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday acknowledged the US-ASEAN council's crucial role in the Philippine development. During the courtesy call of the American business leaders at the Malacañang Palace, Marcos hoped that alliances, partnerships, and arrangements with its members would be sustained. "I recognize the critical role that the United States and American businesses have played in advancing a robust and inclusive economic growth in the Philippines, not only in this period but for a very long time now," Marcos said. Marcos also acknowledged that the US-ASEAN Business Council is significant in discussing concrete steps in upholding socioeconomic cooperation. These steps include agriculture, clean energy, infrastructure, climate change, digital connectivity, and post-pandemic recovery. Marcos also assured the Council of concrete steps that he and US President Joe Biden have identified to make the two countries' alliance and partnership "relevant and responsive to the current emerging challenges in the defense, security, and economic spheres." "I invite the members of the esteemed Council to continue being valuable partners of the Philippines. Let us push for greater economic engagement between our two countries for our mutual benefit and the prosperity of the region," he added. Ted Osius, a former US ambassador and current President of the Council, mentioned that US companies are eager to strengthen their collaborations with the Philippine government and foster additional connections with businesses in the nation. Osius also stressed the importance of the country's participation in the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC). "We're very much focused, and you highlight these themes on sustainable development, transformative digitalization, innovative healthcare solutions, supply chain resilience, and ease of doing business," Osius said. "We are determined that we come here not just to talk but also bring a lot of action to create real partnerships and to show our commitment in the form of investments," he added. Established in 1984, the US-ASEAN Business Council is a nonprofit entity dedicated to researching and analyzing economic, financial, political, social, and environmental conditions within the ASEAN member states. Globally, the Council's membership exceeds 175 companies, collectively generating nearly USD 7 trillion in revenue and providing employment for over 14.5 million individuals. This Council holds the unique distinction of being the sole American organization formally acknowledged within the ASEAN Charter. Annually, it engages with the Finance, Trade, and Energy Ministers during their respective meetings. The organization's roster comprises the largest American corporations conducting operations within ASEAN. These companies range from newcomers in the region to those with a century-long history of business in Southeast Asia. The post US-ASEAN Business Council: US companies eager to foster Phl business connections appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Global wearable firm moves to Vietnam
The government should work harder in pursuing a free trade agreement, or FTA, with the European Union, or else the wearables sector will be “collateral damage” in the tough competition against ASEAN neighbors. This is after the Confederation of Wearable Exporters of the Philippines or CONWEP executive director Maria Teresita Jocson-Agoncillo revealed that a global brand has already folded and packed things up to transfer to Vietnam. “It is because Vietnam has an FTA with the European Union. They enjoy zero tariffs because their exports are Europe bound. Here, they are paying 12 percent duties,” Jocson-Agoncillo said on the sidelines of the EU-Phl FTA press briefing on Tuesday at the Board of Investments. Asked for the name of the brand, the CONWEP executive did not divulge the brand, as she is a signatory of a non-disclosure agreement with the said brand. Aside from not having an FTA with the EU, workers in ASEAN competitors, such as Vietnam and Cambodia, have significantly low wages compared to the Philippines. Double-digit declines Further, Jocson-Agoncillo said their industry has experienced double-digit declines in 2022. “There are three reasons, the market, the global market, is slowing down. After the surge last year, I’m really getting fewer orders. We’re getting to be very uncompetitive. We just had a recent wage hike. So, there’s another one coming our way. Compared to Cambodia, and Vietnam, we’re reaching $8 minimum wage already. My competitors are at six and seven dollars a day. I have another wage hike coming,” she told reporters. On Tuesday, Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual said his department will make sure that the EU-PHL FTA will be realized under the term of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Benefits of EU-FTA Further, Jocson-Agoncillo said an increase of 300 percent in their exports is expected if the proposed free trade agreement with the EU is realized in the coming years, which can be leveled with the exports they are making to the United States. “We’re doing $200 million now for the European market. So easily, we can move forward to $600 million in the first two years. It can push on to a $800 million to $1 billion performance per year, the fourth or fifth year of implementation of the EU-FTA. I am now at $900 million for the US,” she said. Further, Jocson-Agoncillo stressed that export expansion would also result in more jobs for Filipinos in factories that produce wearables, namely clothing, footwear, textile and bags. “We can create about 120,000 to 250,000 new jobs,” she said. Aside from garments and wearables, BoI managing head Ceferino Rodolfo said other export products that would benefit are in the sector of agriculture. “Of course, there are also other sectors, in particular in the agricultural sector. If you look at the value profile of most advanced economies, the highly protected sectors would be the resource base. So, in particular agriculture, and then the garments are highly protected,” Rodolfo said. The post Global wearable firm moves to Vietnam appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Malaysia offers halal, banking help
MALAYSIA — Filipino officials will soon get a helping hand from their Malaysian counterparts in terms of running the halal industry and Islamic banking. In his statement during his meeting with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday said, “Malaysia has warmly offered its expertise to train Philippine personnel and officials to strengthen our capabilities in these increasingly important sectors.” “Cooperation in this sector would mutually benefit the growth of our respective halal ecosystems,” Marcos said. “Malaysia has warmly offered its expertise to train Philippine personnel and officials to strengthen our capabilities in these increasingly important sectors.” Halal is a dietary law derived from Islamic teachings, meaning “lawful or permitted. Of the 110 million Filipinos, Muslims in the Philippines make up about 6 percent of the population. The two leaders also agreed to enhance their trade and investment ties, with Marcos noting that Malaysia is one of the leading halal economies in the world. The Philippines and Malaysia, he said, have “longstanding relations and strong economic linkages” and “commonalities between our peoples which make our friendship easy.” Both leaders affirmed they would fortify further the bilateral ties between the two nations, geared toward the post-pandemic transformation. As he thanked the Malaysian government for its assistance in the development of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, Marcos said it is time to examine and strengthen the relationship between both Southeast Asian countries. Plans for joint meeting He added that he and the Prime Minister agreed to convene the next Philippines-Malaysia Joint Commission Meeting in the near future. “We do this so that our government agencies will have an avenue to discuss priority cooperation in detail, most especially in the areas of transnational crimes, agriculture, the halal industry, Islamic banking, education, tourism and culture, sports and the digital economy,” Marcos said. Ibrahim, for his part, welcomed Marcos to Malaysia and said the two countries have a long history of close ties. Meanwhile, Marcos and Malaysian King Al-Sultan Abdullah expressed hope the warm relationship enjoyed by Malaysia and the Philippines will continue to blossom for the mutual benefit of their people and nations. In his remarks during the state banquet in honor of Marcos and First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, the Malaysian King said the Philippines is an essential partner to Malaysia, given the Philippines’ proximity and active involvement in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. “Bound by our shared aspirations of progress, peace, and prosperity, our two countries share many commonalities and strong people-to-people ties to this day. We have faced many common challenges, but we have also achieved much more together,” the King said. [caption id="attachment_162690" align="aligncenter" width="1600"] Warm welcome President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (seated) and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos (right) are graciously received in a State Welcoming Ceremony at the Istana Negara on Wednesday. Honored by the presence of His Majesty Al-Sultan Abdullah (2nd from left), the King of Malaysia and Queen Azizah (left), the visit signifies the strengthening of diplomatic ties. | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF PCO[/caption] Re-strengthened ties The Philippines and Malaysia “re-strengthened” their relationship as the two Southeast Asian nations prepare for a post-pandemic recovery where they will play an important role in the region, Marcos Jr. Marcos made the statement in a meeting with Malaysia’s King Al-Sultan Abdullah and Queen Azizah, where he and First Lady Marie Louise “Liza” Araneta-Marcos received a State welcome, including a 21-gun salute, on their arrival at Istana Negara, Malaysia’s National Palace. The King and Queen of Malaysia, as well as Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his wife, Dato’ Seri Dr. Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, welcomed the Philippine President and the First Lady. “It is time for us to really examine that relationship and re-strengthen that relationship, and that, for me, is the most important aspect of this visit that I have made to Kuala Lumpur, to Malaysia,” Marcos said in the meeting. “I believe that it is the way for us to refocus our efforts together to mutually beneficial initiatives for our two countries and to see how we can help one another as we face the post-pandemic future,” he added. The post-pandemic scenario is a very different road that the two nations face compared to what we had before the pandemic. According to Marcos, their membership in ASEAN and BIMP-EAGA continue to strengthen their relationship as they come back and start to emerge from the difficult period of the last two and a half years of the pandemic. The two countries must recreate and transform themselves to be competitive and to be part of a new world order as it is happening and changing now, he said. “We will play a huge part in that transformation. And that transformation is going to strengthen and be made more stable by this partnership that we make with each other,” Marcos asserted. “And so it becomes more and more important for me that these partnerships we will foster on a cultural level and people-to-people (diplomacy) will continue to be expanded and gain stature in the way that we promote that relationship between our two countries,” he said. This partnership is essential not only for Malaysia, the Philippines, and ASEAN but also for the rest of the world, Marcos pointed out. Whatever beginnings they have made, they all proved to be of importance to the continuing relationship between Malaysia and the Philippines, he added. The President arrived in Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday afternoon for a state visit that include meetings with the Malaysian king, government officials, as well as business leaders to strengthen the relationship between the Philippines and Malaysia. The post Malaysia offers halal, banking help appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PM Ibrahim and PBBM affirm bilateral ties between MAL and PHL
MALAYSIA - Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday affirmed to fortify further bilateral ties between the two nations, geared toward the post-pandemic transformation. In a joint press statement of the Philippine President and the Malaysian Prime Minister, Marcos said it is time to examine and strengthen the relationships between both Southeast Asian countries. Marcos explained that the Philippines and Malaysia have "longstanding relations and strong economic linkages," and "commonalities between our peoples which make our friendship easy." The Chief Executive also thanked the Malaysian government for its assistance in the development of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. He added that Malaysian authorities intend to introduce running the Halal industry and Islamic banking to Filipino counterparts. "Malaysia has warmly offered its expertise to train Philippine personnel and officials to strengthen our capabilities in these increasingly important sectors," Marcos added. He added that he and the Prime Minister had agreed to convene the next Philippines-Malaysia Joint Commission Meeting in the near future. "We do this so that our government agencies will have an avenue to discuss priority cooperation in detail, most especially in the areas of transnational crimes, agriculture, Halal industry, Islamic banking, education, tourism and culture, sports, and the digital economy," Marcos said. The two leaders also agreed to enhance their trade and investment ties, with Marcos noting that Malaysia is one of the leading halal economies in the world. "Cooperation in this sector would mutually benefit the growth of our respective halal ecosystems," Marcos said. Marcos also expressed gratitude to Malaysia for its assistance in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. "Malaysia has warmly offered their expertise to train Philippine personnel and officials to strengthen our capabilities in these increasingly important sectors," Marcos said. Ibrahim, for his part, welcomed Marcos to Malaysia and said that the two countries have a long history of close ties. He noted that there has been a slight increase in trade and investment between the two countries in recent years, but that there is still significant potential for growth. "We must explore the strength of the Filipino economy and the business community in both countries," Ibrahim said. "We should jointly take measures to enhance bilateral relations and economic trade, at the same time help resuscitate our economic era," he added. Ibrahim said they had discussed the situation in Myanmar. They agreed that ASEAN should continue to strengthen the five-point consensus on Myanmar. Still, both the Southeast Asian leaders agreed that there should also be room for informal engagement with neighboring countries. The meeting concluded with the two leaders agreeing to accelerate resolving outstanding memorandums of understanding (MOUs) between Malaysia and the Philippines. They also agreed to meet again in the near future to discuss further ways to strengthen bilateral relations. The post PM Ibrahim and PBBM affirm bilateral ties between MAL and PHL appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PBBM: Phl-Malaysia partnership ‘important to ASEAN, world’
MALAYSIA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Malaysian King Al-Sultan Abdullah expressed hope that the warm relationship enjoyed by Malaysia and the Philippines will continue to blossom for the mutual benefit of the people and nations. In his remarks during the state banquet in honor of visiting Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, the Malaysian King said the Philippines is an essential partner to Malaysia, given the Philippines' proximity and active involvement in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. "Bound by our shared aspirations of progress, peace and prosperity, our two countries share many commonalities and strong people-to-people ties to this day, we have faced many common challenges, but we have also achieved much more together. "Mutual efforts and understanding are vital to further elevate our close relations and good cooperation to new heights. I hope that Malaysia and the Philippines can expand their collaborations and partnership in new and emerging areas such as agriculture, digital economy and halal food industry," said His Majesty. Marcos, for his part, said that he believes the Philippines and Malaysia can work together to "recreate ourselves" and "transform ourselves" in the post-pandemic world. He added that these partnerships will be strengthened by the close people-to-people ties between the two countries. "It is important not only to Malaysia, it is not only important to the Philippines, it is not only important to (the Association of Southeast Asian Nations), but it is important to the rest of the world," Marcos said. "And that we hope is the part that we will play as partners, Malaysia and the Philippines, in the years to come," he added. The President received a State Welcome Ceremony, complete with a 21-gun salute, when he arrived at the Istana Negara, also referred to as the National Palace, earlier on Wednesday. The King and Queen of Malaysia, along with Prime Minister Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his wife, Dato' Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, personally greeted him. The President is currently in a three-day official trip to the nearby Southeast Asian nation after making a stop in Manila last March. The Philippines holds the 15th position among Malaysia's trading partners in terms of global trade and ranks as the fifth largest among the ASEAN member states. The total trade between the two countries reached $9.42 billion in 2022, marking a significant growth of 20.1 percent compared to the previous year's recorded value in 2021. The post PBBM: Phl-Malaysia partnership ‘important to ASEAN, world’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Enhancing economic diplomacy worldwide
Since assuming office in 2022, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has embarked on 11 foreign visits aimed at enhancing diplomatic relations, fostering economic ties, and promoting international cooperation. His foreign visits hold significant importance in shaping the country’s global standing and pursuing its national interests. One of the Chief Executive’s primary objectives in his global forays is to strengthen regional ties within Southeast Asia. Recognizing the importance of regional cooperation, he has engaged with neighboring countries through bilateral meetings and participation in regional summits. [gallery columns="2" size="full" ids="161524,161523"] By promoting dialogue and collaboration, President Marcos Jr. aims to address mutual challenges such as climate change, maritime security, and terrorism that affect the region collectively. In particular, Marcos Jr. prioritized forging stronger ties with traditional allies like the United States, Japan and Australia. These visits have sought to reaffirm existing partnerships and explore new avenues for collaboration, particularly in the fields of trade, defense, and technology. Another critical aspect of the President’s foreign visits was to boost economic diplomacy and attract foreign investments to the Philippines. Recognizing the need for economic growth and job creation, he has engaged in high-level discussions with leaders and business representatives from various countries. These interactions have aimed to showcase the Philippines as an attractive investment destination and foster international confidence in the country’s economic prospects. [gallery columns="2" size="full" ids="161520,161521,161519,161514,161516,161518"] As part of his economic diplomacy efforts, President Marcos Jr. has also participated in international economic forums and trade summits, advocating for fair trade practices and increased market access for Philippine products and services. These engagements have helped position the Philippines as an active player in the global economy, enabling the country to benefit from the opportunities of an interconnected world. In these engagements, the President has demonstrated a commitment to addressing global challenges and representing the Philippines on the international stage. His participation in multilateral forums such as the United Nations General Assembly, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations or ASEAN Summit, and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation or APEC Summit have allowed him to engage with world leaders on various pressing issues. During his first year in office, President Marcos Jr. has been confronted with several international crises and humanitarian challenges. His foreign visits have presented opportunities to strengthen cooperation with other nations in times of need. As the world continues to grapple with complex challenges, the President’s diplomatic efforts have aimed to position the Philippines as a responsible and active member of the international community. The impact of his foreign visits will continue to shape the country’s relations with the world and its pursuit of national interests on the global stage. The post Enhancing economic diplomacy worldwide appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Megaworld taps AI for smart towns
Andrew Tan-led township developer Megaworld Corp. has opened the country’s first data science lab that helps build smarter townships across the country. Through the project, dubbed Township Analytics and Technology Lab, or TAT Lab, Megaworld projects nationwide will be developed with the help of machine-learning models using artificial intelligence. “Megaworld’s commitment to building next-generation townships that are safer, more secure, enjoyable, and sustainable is evident with the establishment of our very own data science lab,” Francis Viernes, chief data scientist and lab director of TAT Lab and head of Data Analytics, said. “Our residents, locators, visitors, and partners stand to benefit from the various innovative programs to be spearheaded by TAT Lab, which are all aimed at creating better experiences in and around our townships,” he added. Predictive existence One of the programs already deployed by TAT Lab is an advanced accident detection system, which is designed to detect road accidents seconds before it happens to trigger a faster, more efficient incident response. TAT Lab’s accident detection system recently won the Innovation Award at the annual ASEAN Innovation Business Platform or AIBP, Enterprise Innovation Awards for leading the way in emerging digital innovations using AI in the region. Another program is the Township-Specific Weather Analytics and Monitoring implemented in partnership with Komunidad, the leader in climate data analytics in Asia. The program aims to help make Megaworld townships more resilient by providing localized and more accurate climate information to help residents and locators plan their day-to-day activities more efficiently. Located within the TAT Lab headquarters is the Megaworld Command Center, a state-of-the-art surveillance facility, that is capable of monitoring and consolidating situation reports across all of Megaworld’s townships nationwide. The Command Center is run by both TAT Lab and Megaworld’s Estate group, with the latter handling its operations. Other programs that will be rolled out soon by TAT Lab include township geographic assessment with real-time traffic information, as well as advanced security monitoring programs aimed at implementing additional layers of security and protection for residential condominiums, offices, malls, hotels, and other major components of Megaworld townships. In the future, more data science and technology programs will be employed in various aspects across Megaworld’s townships, including risks, traffic, security, utilities, waste disposal, and sustainability. Aside from the recognition from AIBP, Megaworld clinched top prizes from World Business Outlook Awards 2023, namely “Best Real Estate Company,” “Most Innovative Real Estate Company,” and “Most Sustainable Real Estate Developer” in the Philippines. The post Megaworld taps AI for smart towns appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Allied nations tell China: Acknowledge arbitral ruling
The Philippines marked the seventh anniversary of its landmark victory against China before the Permanent Court of Arbitration with an outpouring of support from different countries. At least eight nations on Wednesday renewed their support for the 2016 Hague ruling that cemented Manila’s claim to the West Philippine Sea. Diplomats from the United States, Japan, Australia, France, Canada, the United Kingdom, India and the European Union called on China to acknowledge the ruling and stop its “harassment” of claimant states in the South China Sea. On this day, seven years ago, the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, the Netherlands favored the Philippines’ claim to the West Philippine Sea, rejecting China’s nine-dash line claim. “We continue to urge Beijing to comport its maritime claims with international law as reflected in the 1982 Law of the Sea Convention; to cease its routine harassment of claimant state vessels lawfully operating in their respective exclusive economic zones; [and to] halt its disruption of states’ sovereign right to explore, exploit, conserve, and manage their natural resources,” State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said in a statement. Miller called on Beijing to end its “interference” with the freedom of navigation and the overflight of states lawfully operating in the region. “We will continue working with allies and partners to advance a free and open Indo-Pacific, one that is at peace and grounded in respect for international law,” he said. Last week, Chinese Coast Guard vessels blocked and carried out “dangerous maneuvers” against Philippine Coast Guard ships in the Ayungin Shoal. Beijing, however, countered Manila’s claim, saying the Chinese maneuvers were “professional and restrained.” It also insisted on its territorial claim over Ayungin Shoal, which it calls Ren’ai Reef, saying the Philippines “intruded” into its waters. Ayungin Shoal is located 105 nautical miles west of Palawan and is part of the exclusive economic zone and continental shelf of the Philippines. ‘Final, legally binding’ Japan also joined the growing pressure on China to recognize the 2016 arbitral ruling which it described as “final and legally binding.” “As the tribunal’s award is final and legally binding on the parties to the dispute under the provisions of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, the parties to this case, the Philippines and China, are required to comply with the award,” Japanese Foreign Minister Hayashi Yoshima said in a statement. “The claim by China that it will not accept the award is against the principle of the peaceful settlement of disputes in accordance with international law, in particular UNCLOS, and undermines the rule of law as a fundamental value of the international community,” he added. According to Hayashi, Tokyo “strongly hopes” that the parties’ compliance with the award will “lead to the peaceful settlement of disputes in the South China Sea.” “Upholding and reinforcing the free and open international order based on the rule of law will be to the benefit of all countries, large and small,” he said. He noted that Japan renewed its objection to China’s maritime claims in the South China Sea, saying that these were “inconsistent” with UNCLOS. He also said that it remained “seriously concerned” about the current situation in the area. “Japan will continue working in coordination with ASEAN and other countries concerned to maintain and strengthen the free and open international order based on the rule of law.” ‘Strongly opposes’ Likewise, the European Union “strongly opposes” any “unilateral attempts” to change the peacefully established status of territories by “force or coercion” anywhere in the world, be it in Eastern Europe or the South China Sea. In a forum organized by the international think tank Stratbase ADRI Institute, EU Ambassador to the Philippines Luc Veron reiterated that the Permanent Court of Arbitration laid down very clearly that there is “no legal basis” for China’s expansive maritime claims in the South China Sea. “We are one with the Philippines and other international partners in stressing the importance of upholding international law, including UNCLOS and the peaceful settlement of disputes as the basis for peace and stability in this part of the world, as elsewhere,” Veron said in his speech. “Respect for the rules-based international order is at the core of the EU’s approach towards cooperation in the Indo-Pacific,” he added. According to the envoy, the EU is “determined to work with the Philippines and other partners in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific and, more broadly, a free and open international order” based on the rule of law.” “The EU also stands ready to facilitate activities which help build confidence, and prevent and defuse tensions,” he said. Australian Ambassador to the Philippines HK Yu echoed the same sentiments, stressing that Canberra wants to see a “peaceful South China Sea where international law is respected and adhered to, and waterways are open for trade.” Yu also stressed that maritime claims inconsistent with UNCLOS are causing tensions in the Indo-Pacific region. “Australia is deeply concerned when countries pursue claims or engage in activities that are inconsistent with international law where they undertake activities that are provocative and destabilizing or where they don’t respect the rights and freedoms of others or when they advance their claims by intimidation and coercion,” she said. “UNCLOS provides the comprehensive legal framework for all activities in the oceans and seas and it provides the foundation for peace and security and stability in the maritime domain,” she said. She continued: “Adherence to UNCLOS is vitally important for the region and maritime claims within the South China Sea or elsewhere must be consistent with it.” Outgoing French Ambassador Michèle Boccoz also supports Manila’s position in the West Philippine Sea, saying that Paris is “concerned” by the recent development in the area. “There is indeed no legal basis for China’s expansive maritime claims in the South China Sea. This position was clearly stated in April during the G7 Foreign Ministers’ communiqué,” Boccoz said. “Also last week, together with the Philippines and other like-minded countries, France expressed its concern with regard to the recent developments involving Chinese vessels in the South China Sea,” she added. She also noted that France welcomes the growing support for the 2016 arbitral award while reaffirming its commitment to the Philippines. “In the current context of rising tensions, the relevance of the 2016 Award is gaining stronger momentum, as reflected by the wider support of like-minded nations,” she said. “We welcome this trend and we will continue to show our support. We will continue to walk the talk,” she added. Indian Ambassador to the Philippines Shambhu Kumaran likewise expressed New Delhi’s support for the arbitral award. “Let me take a few minutes to also say that today’s discussion on the arbitral award is a reflection of the broader approach that both India and Asean have taken and our bilateral relations with the Philippines as well,” Kumaran said. “And accordingly, I think in the joint statement, we did recognize the need for adherence to international law and called for the arbitral award to be respected in that context,” he added. The post Allied nations tell China: Acknowledge arbitral ruling appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Japan renews call on China to recognize the 2016 Arbitral Award
Japan on Wednesday joined the growing pressure on China to recognize the 2016 ruling of the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, Netherlands that cemented Manila’s claims in the West Philippine Sea. In a statement, Japanese Foreign Minister Hayashi Yoshima called on both the Philippines and China to “comply” with the arbitral award which he described as “final and legally binding.” “As the Tribunal's award is final and legally binding on the parties to the dispute under the provisions of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the parties to this case, the Philippines and China, are required to comply with the award,” Hayashi said. “The claim by China that it will not accept the award is against the principle of peaceful settlement of disputes in accordance with international law, in particular UNCLOS, and undermines the rule of law as a fundamental value of the international community,” he added. He issued the statement as the nation commemorates the seventh anniversary of the landmark victory, a ruling which China continues to reject by insisting on its historic rights in the West Philippine Sea. On 12 July 2016, the Philippines won the arbitration case it filed against China in the PCA. China, however, rejected the arbitral ruling and stood by its historic rights nine-dash line claim. According to Hayashi, Tokyo “strongly hopes” that the parties' compliance with the award will “lead to the peaceful settlement of disputes in the South China Sea.” “Upholding and reinforcing the free and open international order based on the rule of law will be the benefit of all countries, large and small,” he said. Likewise, he noted that Japan renews its objection to China’s maritime claims in the South China Sea, saying that these are “inconsistent” with UNCLOS. He also said that it remains “seriously concerned” about the current situation in the area. “Recalling that the Japan-Philippines Joint Statement issued in February 2023, G7 Hiroshima Leaders' Communiqué in May 2023 and G7 Foreign Ministers' Communiqué in April 2023 underscored the importance of the free and open international order based on the rule of law, Japan reiterates its strong opposition to unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force or coercion,” he said. “Japan will continue working in coordination with ASEAN and other countries concerned to maintain and strengthen the free and open international order based on the rule of law,” it added. Last week, Chinese Coast Guards vessels allegedly blocked and carried out “dangerous maneuvers” against Philippine Coast Guards vessels in the Ayungin Shoal. Ayungin Shoal is located 105 nautical miles west of Palawan and is part of the exclusive economic zone and continental shelf of the Philippines. The post Japan renews call on China to recognize the 2016 Arbitral Award appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
SBG joins 64th Araw ng Lanao del Norte celebration,
Sen. Bong Go personally attended the 64th Araw ng Lanao del Norte celebration in Nunungan town on Wednesday, 28 June. The event, held with the theme "Moving Forward through Resilience, Unity, Peace, and Development," aimed to promote the province's progress and unity in the face of various challenges. In his keynote address, Senator Go emphasized the importance of unity and resilience in achieving peace and development. He acknowledged the province's rich cultural heritage and stressed the need to preserve and promote it for the benefit of future generations. “Napakalaking karangalan para sa akin na narito tayo ngayon upang ipagdiwang ang ika-64 na Araw ng Lanao del Norte,” Go expressed. “This year's theme, ‘Moving Forward through Resilience, Unity, Peace, and Development’, reflects the indomitable spirit of the people of this beautiful province. It is a testament to your unwavering commitment to progress, despite the challenges that have come your way,” he continued. During the event, Senator Go was joined by several local officials, including Congresswoman Sittie Aminah Dimaporo, Governor Imelda Quibranza- Dimaporo, former Cong. Abdullah Dimaporo, Nunungan Mayor Marcos Mamay and Vice Mayor Jun Kasawa, among others. During the event, the local government also launched the Mt. Inayawan Range Natural Park as an ASEAN Heritage Park. “Today, we are not only commemorating this special day, but we are also witnessing a significant event—the launching of the Mt. Inayawan Range Natural Park as an ASEAN Heritage Park. This recognition is a testament to the rich biodiversity and natural wonders that Lanao del Norte possesses,” Go underscored. “Habang tayo'y naririto ngayon, napaliligiran ng kagandahan ng kalikasan, huwag po sana nating kalimutan ang ating tungkulin na pangalagaan ang ating kapaligiran. The planting of bamboo trees in Barangay Inayawan is a symbolic act, representing our collective efforts in nurturing and safeguarding Mother Earth,” he urged. The post SBG joins 64th Araw ng Lanao del Norte celebration, appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
RCEP seen driving trade funds demand
The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership or RCEP among members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations plus five other countries will help drive demand for business loans from Philippine banks, economists told the Daily Tribune on Thursday. “RCEP would expand the sources of cheaper imports for foreign and local investors, including small and medium enterprises or SMEs, that manage their respective global supply chains,” Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation chief economist Michael Ricafort said. Effective starting 2 June, RCEP aims to gradually reduce tariff rates on various goods from ASEAN members and other countries over 20 years. It is also seen as streamlining rules on intellectual property, telecommunications, financial services, e-commerce and professional services. Doing business smoothly Ricafort said these mechanisms will also allow foreign firms to do business in the Philippines more smoothly. “It would help attract more foreign direct investors to locate in the country as a production base, as well as an access point to bigger export markets of RCEP member countries in the region and other parts of the world,” he said. Aside from the Philippines, the 14 other trade partners in RCEP are Cambodia, Singapore, Vietnam, Brunei, Malaysia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, Indonesia, New Zealand, Japan, Australia, South Korea and China. New opportunities “RCEP will create new opportunities, expand business operations, and thereby improve the business environment for SMEs in the Philippines by which banks should benefit as well,” Security Bank chief economist Dan Roces said. RCEP members could generate total exports worth $5.2 trillion and a gross domestic product of $26 trillion, according to global business consultancy PricewaterhouseCoopers or PwC. However, Ricafort said local SMEs should adapt fast by improving their employees’ skills and business strategies. “RCEP would also mean increased competition for some local producers, including SMEs, in view of the influx of cheaper imports from other RCEP member countries for the coming years.” The Department of Trade and Industry had reported at least 52 percent of micro businesses and SMEs fully reopened in 2021. “The country’s membership in RCEP would be one of the sources of economic growth and recovery especially after the Covid-19 pandemic,” Ricafort said. The post RCEP seen driving trade funds demand appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Selling alcohol responsibly
Last week, I witnessed the renewed pledge of the local alcohol industry and e-commerce platforms to build consumer trust and prevent alcohol sales to minors online. This was held at the event themed, “Promoting a Responsible Environment for the Online Sale of Alcoholic Beverages in the Philippines,” held jointly by the Asia Pacific International Spirits and Wines Alliance and the Alcoholic Beverages Alliance of the Philippines Inc. I couldn’t help but see parallels between this and the work we do at the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines as we help facilitate our growing E-Commerce Memorandum of Understanding. The pledge was, like the E-Commerce MoU, signed during the pandemic when illicit activities online skyrocketed. The E-Commerce MoU, now with 27 brands and platforms as members, seeks to establish a code of practice on the back of members’ shared aspiration to respect IP rights and cultivate trust online. Since its implementation in 2021, platforms have been more active in taking down intellectual property infringing posts to the benefit of IP rights holders who have reported positive outcomes. The MoU has in fact been cited as an example that Asean members could replicate to combat counterfeit alcohol online. This was from the latest “Tackling Illicit Alcohol in Southeast Asia” report by the Transnational Alliance to Combat Illicit Trade. The TRACIT report warned that Asean will be the region with the highest consumption of unrecorded alcohol by 2025 if the illicit trade is not mitigated. With unrecorded alcohol making up 44.4% of total alcohol consumption, the Philippines, along with Malaysia, placed 5th in having the biggest ratio out of nine Asean countries monitored. This is alarming as this could mean irreversible health consequences and deaths to our people. This is also alarming in terms of the revenues we lost and could have used to further develop our country. The TRACIT report estimates that the Philippines incurred the second biggest loss in illicit alcohol at $438 million, just a little below the $441 million of Vietnam. In sum, counterfeit alcohol could reverse the gains that we have been building for Asean’s Community Vision 2025, and that is having a highly competitive region, driven by innovation, among other things. Although we are no longer the chair of the Asean Network of Intellectual Property Enforcement Experts — we just turned over our two-year chairmanship this year — IPOPHL will continue to push for the adoption of an E-Commerce MoU across Asean so that the positive results we experienced in the Philippines can be expanded regionwide. Currently, we are revising the MoU to make further improvements, mostly to improve reporting mechanisms, incorporate new terms and identify red flag listings. We also hope to share the MoU with more stakeholders, inviting more members, especially Facebook which has become a marketplace. We will continue coordinating closely with all signatories to ensure the smooth implementation of the MoU and sustain momentum. The pledge and e-commerce MoU are just some of the indicators that show the shared goal of APISWA, ABAPI and IPOPHL. It shows that many still reflect on the values of being good citizens and know that we need to instill and live by them even in the online space. Given the concrete outcomes from the E-Commerce MoU, we are positive that ABAPI will also register positive gains in its mission. We share a toast to drinking alcohol responsibly, as well as selling it responsibly with only the legitimate and original products. The post Selling alcohol responsibly appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»