The Philippines is scheduled to sign the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) in November to accelerate regional digital integration during the country’s 2026 chairship of the bloc.
Department of Trade and Industry-Bureau of International Trade Relations director Marie Sherylyn Aquia said the signing will be performed by Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque and witnessed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on the sidelines of the ASEAN Summit. Once signed, the agreement will move to domestic ratification, which may require either executive or Senate approval in 2027.
The DEFA stands as 1 of 19 priority economic deliverables for the Philippine chairship. The framework is designed to enable interoperable digital payments and e-wallet systems across the region while establishing a secure environment for e-commerce.
“This meeting targets the endorsement of all priority economic deliverables, particularly the DEFA. Once approved by ASEAN ministers, implementation will begin, with some activities coordinated through the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas,” Aquia said during a briefing for the ASEAN Senior Economic Officials’ Meeting on Tuesday.
The agreement aims to bolster regional trust by implementing measures for online consumer protection, personal data security, and safeguards against online scams. It is specifically expected to assist micro, small and medium enterprises by streamlining electronic documentation and cross-border digital payments.
Technical preparations are underway in the Philippines through March 13. These sessions include the DEFA Negotiating Committee Meeting and a gathering of legal experts tasked with “scrubbing” the text to ensure clarity before the November deadline.
Despite geopolitical volatility, officials emphasized the urgency of finalizing the pact to secure ASEAN’s position in the global market.
“Even amid global uncertainties, including developments in the Middle East, it is crucial to conclude the DEFA negotiations. The digital economy remains a vital growth sector for ASEAN,” Aquia said.
The Philippines intends for its 2026 leadership to cement its role in regional innovation and connectivity, ensuring member states are prepared for immediate implementation of digital trade initiatives.
