Philippines Pushes for Desired Outcomes at 2024 APEC ISOM in Korea

Undersecretary Jose speaking at the ISOM Plenary.

MANILA 16 December 2024 – The Philippines actively participated in the APEC Informal Senior Officials' Meeting (ISOM), which was held in Seoul, Korea from 09 to 11 December 2024. The ISOM gathered senior officials from 21 APEC economies to discuss key priorities and set the agenda for the APEC hosting of Korea in 2025, under the theme "Connect. Innovate. Prosper."

Headed by Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Charles C. Jose, the Philippine delegation highlighted the country’s commitment to advancing the APEC Putrajaya Vision 2040, focusing on enhancing regional economic integration, promoting sustainable development, and fostering inclusive growth. The Philippines also emphasized the importance of supporting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through digitalization and human capital development, as well as ensuring food security, and accelerating the transition to clean energy.

The Philippine delegation also expressed strong support for the initiatives proposed by the Republic of Korea (ROK) for the upcoming year. These initiatives include joint ministerial and high-level meetings on Structural Reform, Artificial Intelligence, Education, Energy, Ocean-related matters, SMEs, Labor and Employment, and Culture.

"The Philippines supports APEC initiatives that strengthen connectivity, enhance sectoral cooperation, and ensure that our region’s economic growth is inclusive and resilient," said Undersecretary Jose. 

The APEC ISOM served as a platform for the senior officials to discuss and coordinate on pressing economic and trade issues, setting the stage for the official meetings leading up to the APEC Leaders' Week at the end of October 2025. END