Kuala lumpur: ASEAN is looking at medium- and long-term solutions to strengthen the region's energy security and resilience amid global uncertainties, said the Philippine Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Undersecretary Allan Gepty. Gepty, who is also the Philippine ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) Council Minister, emphasized that energy security is vital not only for businesses, including micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), but for all sectors.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Gepty highlighted the implementation of the ASEAN Power Grid (APG) as a long-term solution for the resilience of countries during a press conference held in conjunction with the 48th ASEAN Summit and Related Meetings from May 6 to 8, 2026. The APG is expected to be a significant step towards ensuring a stable energy supply across the region.

Meanwhile, Gepty mentioned that the conclusion and signing of the Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) will be among the key deliverables of the summit. He noted that stakeholders are looking forward to this important agreement, which aims to promote regional payment interconnectivity-crucial for businesses across ASEAN.

The DEFA is anticipated to aid MSMEs in accessing foreign markets through online platforms and establishing clearer rules governing digital transactions in the region. Gepty remarked that online platforms serve as equalisers for MSMEs to reach foreign markets and that a set of rules for online transactions would be highly welcomed.

The Philippines assumed the ASEAN Chairmanship from Malaysia on January 1, 2026, under the theme 'Navigating Our Future, Together,' focusing on three pillars: Peace and Security Anchors, Prosperity Corridors, and People Empowerment. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim will lead the Malaysian delegation to the summit, accompanied by several key ministers including his wife, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, and others.