Manila, 15 January 2026: ERIA and the Philippines’ Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 15 January at the DTI office in Manila, formalising co-operation in support of the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairship in 2026.

The MoU was signed by H.E. Cristina A. Roque, Secretary of Trade and Industry of the Philippines, and ERIA President Tetsuya Watanabe. The agreement establishes an institutional framework for collaboration on key ASEAN economic priorities during the Chairship period.

Under the MoU, DTI will lead the coordination of priority economic initiatives, while ERIA will provide policy-oriented research, analytical support, and technical assistance. This co-operation aims to strengthen evidence-based policymaking and support effective coordination and implementation across ASEAN’s economic agenda.

The partnership reflects ERIA’s mandate to support ASEAN Member States through timely research and policy support, and underscores a shared commitment to advancing regional economic co-operation that is practical, inclusive, and aligned with the ASEAN Community Vision 2045.

Photo Credit: All photos courtesy of DTI Philippines