Gyeongju: Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina Roque on Friday emphasized the Philippines' commitment to strengthening economic and diplomatic relations with Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) member economies. In an interview in Gyeongju, South Korea, Roque said the Philippines aims to deepen cooperation with all of its fellow APEC members in trade, politics, and foreign affairs.

According to Philippines News Agency, Roque noted the Philippines' rising status as an 'Asian superstar,' which presents opportunities to attract more foreign investments. "We really want to promote trade and investment because our President (Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.) is really pro-foreign trade and investment because aside from the income that it generates for our country, it's also the jobs that it provides," Roque said in a video uploaded on the official Facebook page of state-run Radio Television Malaca±ang.

Roque stressed the importance of APEC in achieving these goals, highlighting the opportunity to strengthen relationships and work closely with international counterparts. "He wants our Filipinos to stay in the country, to be with family. So, importante po ang APEC (APEC is important) and we really look forward to having closer ties and working closely with our counterparts," she added.

The Trade chief mentioned that the two-day APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting provides a platform for Marcos to present the Philippines' plans and opportunities to world leaders. She added that the event gives the Philippines a significant boost as it prepares to host the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in 2026, an event that will further showcase the country's offerings to regional partners.

Roque also reaffirmed the DTI's full support for Marcos' initiatives, urging the public to take advantage of the agency's programs and projects aimed at boosting local enterprises and economic growth. "For the DTI, we will really continue to support the initiatives of the President. Whatever the President directs us to do, we will definitely follow," she said.

Marcos is currently in Gyeongju to participate in the 32nd APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting, which carries the theme, 'Building a Sustainable Tomorrow: Connect, Innovate, Prosper.' He is also scheduled to hold a series of meetings with various business leaders and executives on the sidelines of the APEC meetings.