Philippines set to host ASEAN Business Advisory Council event

THE ASEAN Business Advisory Council (BAC) Philippines will be hosting the first ASEAN-BAC Retreat next month, with the aim of redefining the council’s role in ASEAN integration.

“The retreat will also feature a high-level reception that will serve as the soft launch of the Philippines’ BAC Chairmanship in 2026,” ASEAN BAC Philippines said.

“It will bring together business leaders from across Southeast Asia, senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, and development partners — highlighting the Philippines’ whole-of-nation approach to driving ASEAN prosperity,” it added.

ASEAN-BAC Philippines Chair Jose Ma. A. Concepcion III said that the retreat will allow business leaders an opportunity for “a timely reset as we get ready to lead next year and turn ideas into action.”

“During our last chairmanship in 2017, our vision was “Prosperity for All.” In 2026, as ASEAN-BAC turns 25, we expand this vision to the whole of ASEAN, toward a future that is inclusive, resilient, innovative, and sustainable,” he added.

ASEAN-BAC Malaysia Head Tan Sri Nazir Razak said council members who were appointed by their respective heads of state or government will review their mandate.

“This is not just a meeting — it is a reset. In a world shaped by disruption and divergence, ASEAN-BAC must evolve to remain a credible and effective platform for the private sector,” he said.

“This first-ever retreat reflects our collective responsibility to strengthen our relevance and impact for the region,” he added.

The retreat will be facilitated by McKinsey & Co. to help guide the council “in sharpening its priorities and enhancing its roles in driving ASEAN’s economic integration and public-private cooperation.” — Justine Irish D. Tabile