Southeast Asia Alliance champions youth leadership

In time for the Philippines’ chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) this year, a network of independent communications agencies recently united with a shared vision to create insightful, meaningful and impactful initiatives through seamless regional integration, local expertise in each market, industry best practices and agility for the changing landscape in business and related sectors in Southeast Asia.

Southeast Asia Communications Agencies Network Alliance (SEA CAN Alliance), a network of independent communications agencies in the region, was launched recently Ferdinand Bondoy of COMCO Mundo Philippines as Lead Convener.

“With SEA CAN Alliance, we are building more than just a network; we are creating an ecosystem that connects local expertise with regional synergy, reinforcing excellence in the communications industry,” said Bondoy in a statement. “Our goal is to empower independent agencies to grow together, share strengths, and deliver world-class communication campaigns rooted in authentic Southeast Asian perspectives.”

In his speech during the launch, Bondoy shared that they are in the works to spearhead programs together with their partners and allies in Southeast Asia “for the environment that addresses the climate crisis and programs on engaging the youth.”

“All of these are possible now because of this coalition,” he affirmed.

SEA CAN Alliance by COMCO Mundo brings together pioneering agencies from across the region, Agrakom PR from Indonesia led by its managing director, Hana Budiono; Ink PR from Malaysia led by its managing director, Manimaran Ambalaghan; COMCO Southeast Asia-Pilipinas led by its vice president for Business Operations and managing director / partner, Rachel Syfargo; COMCO Southeast Asia - Singapore led by its Managing director and business administrator / partner, Ampy Corpus; 2COMMU from Thailand led by its managing director Sineenart Sinchai; and Chi Communications from Vietnam led by its managing director / founder, Lai Thuy Chi. 

According to the alliance, Southeast Asia’s communications and marketing landscape is rapidly evolving, driven by digital transformation, cultural convergence and a growing need for human-centered storytelling. The alliance, the group said in a statement, was born out of this dynamic environment, providing a strategic framework for cross-border collaboration, where each member contributes its unique market expertise to help brands and organizations navigate complex audiences and cultural nuances.

“Joining SEA CAN Alliance means expanding our opportunities to help brands, the people, and the community grow through meaningful communications,” said Sinchai. “It elevates our purpose and potential, allowing us to empower our clients who aim to make an impact at a regional level. Beyond the work we accomplish together, we are equally excited to foster long-lasting friendships with our partners who share both great minds and good hearts.”

“Singapore serves as a key regional hub, and SEA CAN Alliance unites strategic excellence with creativity,” said Corpus. “Through this collaboration, we can deliver campaigns that are culturally fluent, strategically strong and impactful across Southeast Asia, helping our clients scale seamlessly across markets.”

Beyond building business and creative collaborations, the alliance aims to advance its regional advocacy through One Southeast Asia, a communications initiative that aims to champion regional identity, environmental sustainability and youth engagement. Initially, through the collaboration of media partners and other storytellers, One Southeast Asia amplifies stories that inspire unity, shared purpose and a deeper appreciation for the region’s collective identity, environmental resources and empowered youth.

“Asean faces pressing social and environmental issues, from climate change to inequality,” said Lai. “By championing these causes, the alliance can help the industry lead meaningful change while setting the standard as pioneers in addressing these challenges across the region.”