Department of Trade and Industry secretary Alfredo Pascual underscore the importance of the private sector in ensuring continued growth and stability amid the challenges brought about by the pandemic and geopolitical tensions.
Pascual, speaking during the ASEAN-Business Advisory Council meeting on Aug. 19, 2023 in Semarang, Indonesia, called for a comprehensive and collaborative approach on climate mitigation and adaptation strategies, promotion of renewable energy sources, responsible urban planning and enhanced regional cooperation in disaster risk reduction.
He said partnership with the private sector is critical in developing and implementing sustainable business models, including those relating to technological innovation in production and product development in agriculture.
Pascual also encouraged the private sector to continue advocating for sustainability as a core business principle. He said continued public and private partnership would generate high-quality and better-paying jobs for all.
The Philippine delegation welcomed the key initiatives of the private sector under Indonesia’s ASEAN 2023 chairmanship. Othel V. Campos