As the Philippines prepares to assume the ASEAN chairship in 2026, the private sector is calling for stronger governance and a renewed push for inclusive growth to bolster the country’s credibility on the regional stage.

Speaking at the 51st Philippine Business Conference & Expo on 21 October 2025, ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC) Philippines chair and incoming ASEAN-BAC chair Jose Ma. “Joey” Concepcion III warned that ongoing corruption controversies risk undermining investor confidence just as the country readies for one of its biggest international hosting events under the Marcos administration.

“The corruption scandal is a big setback,” Concepcion said during a plenary session organized by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI). “It reflects so poorly on the Philippines. I know that the private sector plays a huge role in economic growth, but it is also important that our legislators understand that we cannot do this alone.”

Concepcion emphasized that the ASEAN 2026 summit represents a crucial opportunity to showcase the Philippines as a rising investment hub in the region. “As we host ASEAN in 2026, we have to project that the Philippines has a great future,” he said. “We have to project that this country is an honest country—that we do not steal from our people.”

He expressed gratitude to key government partners, including the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Office of the First Lady, for their continued support of Go Negosyo, the entrepreneurship advocacy organization he founded in 2005. Concepcion also thanked the PCCI, whose members regularly mentor micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through Go Negosyo’s national mentoring programs.

Concepcion said the ASEAN-BAC chairship will prioritize MSME development alongside agriculture and food security, digital innovation, the creative economy, and human capital growth, with a focus on empowering women and youth entrepreneurs.

“If we want this country to be more inclusive, it cannot be just the few who are enjoying prosperity,” he said. “The key is to bring about greater prosperity for every Filipino.”