Gyeongju: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. hailed the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit in Gyeongju, South Korea, as a ‘very productive’ meeting, emphasizing that discussions among regional leaders offered valuable insights on trade, artificial intelligence (AI), and climate action amid global uncertainties.

According to Philippines News Agency, President Marcos shared with the Philippine media that the summit’s discussions primarily focused on trade and economic cooperation. Leaders also engaged in meaningful dialogues on AI governance, climate change mitigation, and loss-and-damage mechanisms, reflecting issues that are shaping global economic policies.

Marcos highlighted that despite the diversity of participants, ranging from Latin American countries like Mexico and Chile to major Asian economies and Southeast Asian neighbors, a common concern was evident: navigating economic uncertainty. He noted that many leaders voiced their concerns about facing precarious times, underscoring a shared analysis of global challenges.

The summit also provided Marcos with opportunities for informal exchanges with other leaders and ministers, allowing him to gather diverse perspectives on global and regional issues impacting economic growth and cooperation. He expressed that these interactions were enlightening, contributing to a collection of ideas to explore upon returning to Manila.

The 2025 APEC Summit concluded with the transition of chairship to China, the host for 2026. Despite a busy schedule following his participation in the ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, earlier in the week, Marcos affirmed the significance of these back-to-back regional engagements. He described them as crucial platforms for dialogue and collaboration amid what he termed a ‘precarious and fast-changing global economy.’