President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s youngest Gen-Z Special Envoy Bran Ferrer Reluao officially began his mission to Thailand, with a focus on digital connectivity, innovation and creative partnerships.
Reluao met with Philippine Ambassador to Thailand Millicent Cruz-Paredes at the Philippine Embassy in Bangkok to present his mandate.
A longtime digital and technology advocate, the young envoy said his focus will be on advancing people-centered, future-ready diplomacy that supports the Philippines’ transition to a digital and creative economy.
On his first official day, Reluao visited two of Thailand’s top innovation and design agencies to learn about their programs and explore areas of cooperation.
At the Thailand Creative and Design Center (TCDC), a government-backed hub for creative entrepreneurship and design innovation, he toured the library, co-working spaces and exhibition areas showcasing Thai design.
TCDC officials explained how they help startups, designers and small businesses through mentorship, funding support and public-private partnerships.
Reluao said similar programs could inspire Philippine initiatives to empower creative talents and promote cultural industries.
Reluao also met with the Digital Economy Promotion Agency (DEPA), Thailand’s lead agency for digital development.
DEPA officials presented Thailand’s digital roadmap, including smart city projects, e-government services, startup incubation programs and digital literacy campaigns.
Discussions with DEPA focused on how the Philippines and Thailand can work together on regional digital innovation, policy development, and programs for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Both sides agreed to explore joint training programs, exchange of best practices, and cooperation in emerging technologies.
“These visits show how much potential there is for knowledge sharing and collaboration between our two countries,” Reluao said.
“We can learn from Thailand’s creative and digital ecosystems to build more inclusive, resilient and future-ready economies.”
Apart from his diplomatic mission, Reluao is also behind the Pay It Forward initiative that equips students and teachers with digital tools and free training to bridge the digital divide.