TOKYO — Trade Secretary Cristina A. Roque engaged with senior executives of Japan’s top industry organizations, Keidanren and Keizai Doyukai, on March 4 to discuss strengthening Philippine-Japan economic relations.
The dialogue focused on fostering mutual economic growth and addressing challenges amid global economic shifts.
Keidanren: Promoting a Free and Open Economy
Roque’s discussion with Keidanren highlighted the upcoming 14th Asia Business Summit (ABS), a key platform for leaders from 12 Asian economies to exchange insights and develop policy recommendations.
The Philippines, a member since ABS’s inception in 2010, will host the summit in July 2025, marking a milestone in the country’s efforts to position itself as an open, innovative, and sustainable economy.
“The ABS, initiated by Keidanren in 2010, has become a vital platform for regional economic discussions. Hosting this year’s summit is a unique opportunity to showcase the Philippines’ dynamic and investment-friendly business environment,” Roque said.
She also highlighted previous successful collaborations, including the 2021 Philippine Economic Briefing and the 2024 ASEAN-Japan Commemorative Summit.
“We seek Keidanren’s continued partnership for the 14th ABS. Their expertise will be invaluable in tackling key themes such as innovation, free and fair trade, carbon neutrality, and digital transformation,” she stated.
Special Trade Representative (STR) Dita Angara-Mathay underscored Keidanren’s influence as Japan’s leading business federation, representing over 1,500 major corporations.
“As we advance a free and open Indo-Pacific, our partnership with Keidanren plays a crucial role in strengthening economic resilience, sustainability, and shared prosperity in the region,” Angara-Mathay said.
While no formal agreements were made, Keidanren executives expressed interest in the Philippines’ potential accession to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and regional trade developments influenced by U.S. economic policies.
In a separate meeting with Keizai Doyukai, also known as the Japan Association of Corporate Executives, Roque highlighted the Japan-ASEAN Talent Circulation Platform (JATCP).
The initiative aligns with the Philippines’ goal of fostering an inclusive environment for skills exchange and workforce development.
Discussions focused on overcoming language barriers, expanding talent circulation, and improving matchmaking between Japanese industries and Filipino workers.
Proposed strategies included targeting industries with minimal language requirements and integrating language training programs to enhance workforce adaptability.
The panel also emphasized the need to align training programs with Japanese industry standards and expand workshops beyond existing workers to include new graduates.
Additionally, participants explored upgrading talent matchmaking from company-to-company arrangements to a national-level coordination framework for better implementation.
Initially introduced at the 50th ASEAN-Japan Business Meeting in 2024, the platform aims to align skills development, streamline talent mobility policies, and address workforce shortages.
“Keizai Doyukai unites over 1,600 top executives from 1,100 leading corporations in Japan. Our partnership with PHILJEC and Keizai Doyukai is crucial in upskilling Filipino talent and addressing Japan’s labor shortages,” Angara-Mathay said.
Roque reaffirmed the Philippine government’s commitment to working with Keizai Doyukai and other stakeholders to enhance talent circulation.
“Under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., we are committed to fostering a sustainable human resource exchange ecosystem that strengthens both nations’ competitiveness and drives regional economic growth,” she said.
The DTI’s collaboration with Keidanren and Keizai Doyukai reinforces the Philippines’ position as a key investment destination and a hub for skilled talent.
These partnerships are expected to drive foreign direct investment, accelerate technology and innovation transfer, and enhance human capital development.
“Engaging with key industry players allows us to leverage their expertise, technological advancements, and best practices to fuel innovation, strengthen workforce capabilities, and create high-value opportunities,” Angara-Mathay stated.
Roque echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of long-term partnerships.
“Our strengthened ties with Japan’s top industry leaders are direct investments in the Philippines’ economic future. We are fostering an environment that attracts foreign capital and develops a highly skilled workforce. By working closely with Keidanren and Keizai Doyukai, we are solidifying the Philippines as a premier investment destination and a regional hub for top talent,” she said.
