Manila: Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) President and General Manager Jose Arnulfo "Wick" Veloso is aiming to utilize the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) to foster investments in the region as he prepares to take on the role of chairperson of the ASEAN Social Security Association (ASSA). According to Philippines News Agency, the ASSA chairmanship will be transferred from Malaysia to the Philippines on Tuesday, during the second day of the 41st ASSA Conference and Board Meetings. Veloso highlighted that AFTA will be a key topic of discussion among ASSA members at the conference. Veloso expressed his vision of building the capabilities of the ASEAN Free Trade. He emphasized that investing in industries integral to the economic growth of the 10 member countries could maximize the potential of the ASEAN Free Trade Agreement. He noted that harnessing AFTA's capabilities would be beneficial due to the availability of long-term funds and the necessity to comprehend their value. AFTA, established in Januar y 1992, seeks to eliminate tariff barriers among Southeast Asian nations. With the Philippines hosting the event, Veloso is optimistic that ASSA members will gain a deeper understanding of the country's interests and industries requiring more attention. Veloso stressed the importance of enabling long-term fund managers visiting the Philippines to understand the nation's critical needs, such as reducing power costs, improving infrastructure, and enhancing food security, healthcare, and education facilities. Despite these goals, Veloso stated that his primary focus as the incoming ASSA chairperson is to promote dialogue and understanding and to facilitate the sharing of opportunities among ASSA members. The three-day conference at the Seda Manila Bay Hotel in Parañaque City includes panel discussions, interactive sessions, and keynote speeches from leading experts and ASEAN leaders. The outcomes and recommendations from this event are expected to contribute to the broader ASEAN agenda, generating actionable insights and strategies to strengthen cooperation and enhance social protection networks across the region. The event is attended by members of the Philippine Social Security Association, which includes the GSIS, Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, Social Security System, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, Home Development Mutual Fund, and Employees' Compensation Commission. ASSA consists of social security institutions from ASEAN member states.