ASEAN Strategic Dialogue 2026 convened by WomenbizPH

April 22, 2026

The ASEAN Strategic Dialogue convened by the Women’s Business Council Philippines on April 15, 2026 at Dusit Thani Manila brought together a distinguished assembly of policymakers, diplomats, business leaders, and women entrepreneurs across Southeast Asia. Anchored on the ASEAN 2026 theme, “Navigating Our Future, Together,” the dialogue underscored a compelling vision: bridging heritage and innovation to unlock inclusive economic growth for the region.At the heart of the discussions was the recognition that women entrepreneurs across ASEAN have long been custodians of cultural heritage, particularly through traditional crafts, weaving, and textile production. These industries, deeply embedded in national identity, are increasingly being viewed not only as cultural treasures but as dynamic engines for economic empowerment and sustainable livelihoods.

The proposed ASEAN Trade Expo 2026 Philippines emerged as a centerpiece initiative of the dialogue. Designed as a regional platform, the expo aims to elevate ASEAN micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) engaged in fabrics, textiles, and indigenous weaves into competitive players within the global market. By integrating traditional industries into modern trade ecosystems, the expo will connect artisans, designers, entrepreneurs, buyers, and investors—fostering innovation while preserving authenticity.

In her Welcome Address, Chairperson Rhoda Castro-Caliwara emphasized the importance of regional collaboration in advancing women-led enterprises and ensuring that cultural industries are supported with the right tools, platforms, and policies. This was reinforced by the Opening Remarks of Ambassador Delia Albert, who highlighted the critical role of women in shaping ASEAN’s socio-economic landscape and strengthening regional cooperation.

A key highlight of the program was the presentation of the ASEAN Trade Expo 2026 Philippines by Rosemarie Rafael and Myrna Yao. Their presentation outlined a hybrid platform that leverages both onsite and digital channels to maximize market access and commercial opportunities for ASEAN enterprises, particularly those led by women.

The ASEAN Ambassadors Roundtable, skillfully moderated by Salve Ibanez, provided valuable diplomatic perspectives on regional trade, cooperation, and cultural exchange. Among the ambassadors in attendance were H.E. Dato Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino (Malaysia),H.E. Madawadee Sumitmor (Thailand), and H.E. Lai Thai Binh (Vietnam)alongside representatives from Cambodia, Indonesia, and other ASEAN member states. The presence of ASEAN trade partners from India, Korea, and China further reinforced the growing global interest in ASEAN’s cultural industries.

Government support was strongly evident, with participation from the Department of Trade and Industry and the Department of Foreign Affairs. Key institutional partners such as Asia Society Philippines, UN Women, Indian Women in Enterprise, and Philippine Airlines also signified strong multi-sectoral collaboration.

The Commitment Session, led by Patrick Chua of the ASEAN Business Advisory Council Philippines, served as a call to action for sustained partnerships and concrete support mechanisms for women-led MSMEs. Also present were ABAC Philippines Senior Advisor Jopin Romero and ASEAN BAC PH Eva Pasagui.

The event concluded with Closing Remarks by Rosemarie Bosch-Ong, who reaffirmed WomenbizPH’s commitment to advancing women entrepreneurs and ensuring that ASEAN’s cultural industries remain resilient, innovative, and globally competitive.

Distinguished WomenbizPH officers and trustees, including Lorna Kapunan, Evelyn Singson, Mylene Abiva, Ida Tiongson, and Sarah Deloraya Mateo, lent their support and presence to the dialogue.

More than a gathering, the ASEAN Strategic Dialogue stood as a powerful testament to the transformative potential at the intersection of heritage and innovation. By creating pathways to market access and fostering regional collaboration, the initiative paves the way for ASEAN’s rich cultural legacy to evolve into a cornerstone of future economic growth—ensuring that women entrepreneurs remain at the forefront of shaping a more inclusive and sustainable ASEAN community.