Partners for prosperity

PRESIDENT RODRIGO DUTERTE led the recent ceremonial launching of the ASEAN 2017 Business and Investment Program, held in Malacañang Palace, Manila. The program is in support of the thrust of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) toward an inclusive, innovationled growth in ASEAN. Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez, who chairs the 2017 ASEAN Economic Ministers (AEM) Meeting, also revealed the country’s strategic priorities and deliverables for the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), ensuring that the Philippines will do its part in achieving change and prosperity in the region. Congratulations to the Department of Trade and Industry for a successful ceremony!

A dialogue with the ambassadors

FORMER FOREIGN SECRETARY AMBASSADOR ROBERTO ROMULO recently hosted a dinner for the new US ambassador Sung Y. Kim at the Romulo Café on Jupiter Street, Makati City. The distinguished guests were delighted by the quality and presentation of traditional Filipino food, which was crafted by the evening’s guest chef Regina Carsi-Cruz. The gathering was also an opportunity for the new American ambassador to meet top opinion leaders from the private sector, including corporate CEOs, former senior government offi cials, as well as media practitioners – to dialogue with them without fear of being quoted. The event’s rousing success encouraged ambassador Romulo to soon spearhead similar events for dignitaries both foreign and local, with the help of the Carlos P. Romulo Foundation. One of the topics discussed was the state of Philippine-US relations, particularly in the context of the shadow of China looming large in the region. Congratulations on a successful dinner, Ambassador!