Now in its 15th year, the Security Bank Economic Forum remains a leading platform for business leaders and investors to gain insights into the trends shaping growth and opportunity across the ASEAN region. This year’s theme, “Trump, Trade, and the Impact on ASEAN,” focused on how evolving U.S. trade and tariff policies are influencing the region’s economic outlook and guiding strategies for resilience and growth.
“Global shifts, from U.S. trade policies to geopolitical tensions, continue to reshape the flow of goods, capital, and talent. For Philippine businesses, these translate into real challenges such as supply chain disruptions and investment uncertainties,” said Cirilo P. Noel, Security Bank Chairman. “At Security Bank, our BetterBanking promise means going beyond financial services to empower clients with insights that help them navigate complexity, adapt with resilience, and seize opportunities.”
The forum gathered prominent thought leaders to share timely perspectives on the evolving global landscape.
Curtis S. Chin, former U.S. Ambassador to the Asian Development Bank and Senior Advisor for Global Markets at the Milken Institute, discussed how U.S. trade and tariff policies under President Donald Trump are influencing ASEAN economies and redefining regional partnerships.
“As geopolitical tensions rise, businesses must understand both the risks and opportunities of this new era. Tariffs and trade are not just economic issues; they shape the future of cooperation and competition in the region,” Chin said. “However, we should never forget that progress in any nation ultimately depends on its own leaders, citizens, businesses, and communities. Whoever is president of the United States or any other country should be no excuse for not moving forward.”
Dr. Cielito F. Habito, former Socioeconomic Planning Secretary, unpacked the implications of shifting global policies for the Philippine economy, emphasizing the need for resilience and inclusive growth.
“Many see opportunities for the Philippines alongside the clear threats from tectonic shifts in the global financial and economic landscape,” Dr. Habito noted. “But in the end, we could well be our own worst enemy in navigating all these changes. We need fundamental policy and institutional reforms to avoid the real threats to our nation’s future arising from self-inflicted weaknesses, especially in our most basic assets: our people and our land.”
Sanjiv Vohra, Security Bank President and CEO, closed the event with a message of optimism and resolve. “Uncertainty is not an excuse to stand still; it is a call for clarity, agility, and purpose,” he said. “Forums like this embody our BetterBanking promise by bringing together ideas, connections, and strategies that help clients thrive amid change.”
Marking 15 years of insightful dialogue, the Security Bank Economic Forum reaffirms the Bank’s commitment to empowering decision-makers through informed discussion. By convening global and local experts, Security Bank continues to equip businesses with the knowledge and perspective needed to navigate an increasingly dynamic world with confidence and purpose.
BetterBanking means being ready for what’s next. Learn more at www.securitybank.com
