Held at Raffles & Fairmont Makati last October 16, the flagship policy and business forum of the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP) and EU-ASEAN Business Council (EU-ABC) gathered diplomats, executives, and government leaders under the theme “Keeping the Philippine Centrestage.”

ECCP President Paulo Duarte underscored the timeliness of the renewed trade talks: “As negotiations for the EU-Philippine Free Trade Agreement resume next week, the Philippines is at a crucial juncture to strengthen its trade, investment, relationship with one of its key economic partners.”

European Union Ambassador to the Philippines H.E. Massimo Santoro echoed the call for collaboration: “Let’s continue to work hand-in-hand, to build not just stronger economies, but also a shared future. One that is prosperous, green, and inclusive.”

The dialogue’s discussions tackled the FTA’s potential to enhance market access, investor confidence, and supply-chain integration, positioning the Philippines as a vital bridge between Europe and ASEAN.

Executive Director Evariste Cagatan of the Department of Trade and Industry’s Board of Investments reinforced the country’s readiness: “The Philippines is ready to welcome and support you, our dear European investors, and there is no better time to deepen our partnership than now.”

With high-level government support and strong private sector alignment, the renewed EU-PH FTA negotiations are expected to chart a path for a future-ready, inclusive, and sustainable partnership between Europe and the Philippines.