Manila, 24 November 2025: ERIA President Tetsuya Watanabe paid a courtesy call on H.E. Dr Ceferino ‘Perry’ S. Rodolfo, Undersecretary for the Industry Development and Investment Promotions Group (IPG) at the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), during his official visit to Manila.

The meeting focused on areas where ERIA can further support the Philippines’ priorities for its ASEAN Chairship in 2026 and explored opportunities to deepen co-operation between the two institutions. Both sides expressed appreciation for the strong and longstanding partnership between ERIA and DTI and reaffirmed their commitment to continued close collaboration.

President Watanabe and Undersecretary Rodolfo also exchanged views on recent developments in global trade and industrial policy, noting their implications for ASEAN’s evolving economic agenda and the region’s future competitiveness.