President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday called on the member economies of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) to continue advancing growth, inclusivity, and sustainability in the face of current global challenges.

“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 in his intervention during the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting informal dialogue with guests at the Hwabaek International Convention Center (HICO) in Gyeongju.

“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, non-discrimination, and transparency,” the President added.

Marcos arrived in the Republic of Korea on Thursday to attend the 32nd APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Gyeongju, and to meet with top business executives, investors, and the Filipino community.

The APEC 2025 is being held under the theme, “Building a Sustainable Tomorrow”, reflecting the ROK’s commitment to building a sustainable and inclusive future in line with the APEC Putrajaya Vision 2040.’

Marcos enumerated key areas in which the regional economic bloc could work together.

The President urged member economies to prioritize the full restoration of the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) dispute settlement mechanism and Appellate Body; to support the development of new and forward-looking disciplines that enhance trade in the digital era and foster a more enabling environment for businesses; and to advance the global sustainability agenda, strengthen food security, and conclude negotiations on the Fisheries Subsidies Agreement.

To further strengthen regional connectivity, President Marcos emphasized the importance of building smarter and more sustainable supply chains through regulatory reforms, digitalization, and skills development.

The President emphasized the importance of enhancing cooperation, promoting regulatory transparency, and implementing capacity-building initiatives, while ensuring that digital transformation and the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) contribute to inclusive and equitable growth throughout the region.

Marcos emphasized that, ultimately, APEC must preserve its strength and relevance by bridging differences, enhancing capacities, and fostering mutual trust among its members.

At the same time, the President underscored the Philippines’ readiness to work with all APEC economies and partners to uphold an open, connected, and future-ready region to maintain resiliency and attain shared prosperity. Presidential News Desk