Positioning the Phl in Asia’s growth story

At the Boao Forum for Asia’s (BFA) 25th annual conference, leaders and policymakers from across the region struck a measured and forward?looking tone. Asia’s positive economic outlook was widely underscored, reaffirming its position as a key driver of global growth. More importantly, there was consensus that the region’s continued stability and prosperity will depend on deeper partnerships, shared innovation and a commitment to inclusive development.

A BFA report said Asia remains the world’s primary growth engine, with its share of global GDP expected to rise to 49.7 percent in 2026 from 49.2 percent in 2025 on a purchasing power parity basis. The report further pointed out that “China and ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) continue to stand out as the region’s twin ‘anchors of stability.”

For countries in Asia, this momentum offers a rare opportunity to reposition themselves within shifting supply chains and emerging industries. The Philippines, situated at the heart of Southeast Asia, is uniquely placed to benefit – if it acts decisively.

Murang Kuryente partylist Rep. Arthur Yap has emphasized that the country must not remain at the margins of global supply chains. As Asia undergoes a major economic transformation, Rep. Yap argues that energy security, industrial upgrading and regional cooperation must be the Philippines’ top priorities.

His point is well taken. As Asia’s economic momentum builds, the Philippines is well positioned to ride this wave by moving into higher?value sectors such as semiconductor packaging, advanced manufacturing and technology services- areas where the country can capture greater value from regional growth.

Unlocking these opportunities will require sustained focus on strengthening key enablers- including reliable and affordable power, efficient logistics as well as a future?ready workforce. These are precisely the areas where targeted reforms and investments can make the biggest difference, helping remove barriers to investment and position the Philippines as a competitive destination in Asia’s next growth phase.

The key is to deepen engagement with regional partners while strengthening domestic foundations. To compete globally, we must first strengthen our local infrastructure.

As Rep. Yap pointed out: “Ensuring affordable and reliable energy for Filipinos requires us to pursue all viable options, including strategic partnerships that can stabilize supply and lower costs. These initiatives are critical not only for consumers but for strengthening our competitiveness and attracting long-term investments.”

As I noted in a previous column, pursuing energy self?sufficiency should be a core national strategy and one that offers the Philippines a durable buffer against global uncertainty. This calls for accelerating renewable energy development, scaling up the exploration of domestic fuel sources and modernizing the power grid. Parallel to these, we should also align policy, investment and consumer behavior around a single, shared objective: long?term national energy security.

Rep. Yap also mentioned that the Philippines can also leverage its rich mineral resources in repositioning itself in Asia’s economic growth. As a major player in the nickel market, the Philippines is in an ideal position to support the booming electric vehicle and renewable energy industries. But to truly benefit from Asia’s growing economy, nickel should be used as a strategic advantage through industrial upgrading and not only as a resource for export.

Then there is also the importance of strengthening human capital. Filipinos have long been recognized as among the most hardworking and reliable professionals in the world. But the global landscape is changing with technology driving growth and industry trends.

To truly compete in today’s evolving economy, this must be matched with expanded science and engineering education and better alignment between training programs and industry needs. Of course, it goes without saying that continuous improvement of our basic education system is a must to set a strong foundation for our youth.

At the same time, Rep. Yap emphasized that economic resilience must include stronger support for agriculture. He emphasized how expanding access to affordable financing – through crop insurance, credit guarantees and risk-sharing mechanisms — can unlock productivity and break the cycle of underinvestment in the sector.

Asia’s momentum remains clear, even in uncertain times. For the Philippines, this period presents not only challenges, but meaningful opportunities- to strengthen our foundations, deepen cooperation with our neighbors and build for the future. With steady focus and collective effort, we can turn today’s trials into progress and secure a stronger, more confident place in Asia’s growing economic landscape.