Toronto, Canada — On 29 April 2025, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), through the Philippine Trade and Investment Center in Toronto (PTIC-Toronto), facilitated the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) and the Canada ASEAN Business Council (CABC) to enhance economic cooperation in priority sectors of mutual interests.

The MOU covers strategic industries such as information and communications technology, innovation, agriculture, manufacturing, franchising, tourism, services, and small and medium enterprise (SME) development. Additionally, it outlines efforts to enhance knowledge-sharing on policies, legal frameworks, and the regulatory environment in both countries to facilitate smoother business transactions and growth.

PTIC-Toronto Trade Commissioner Mario C. Tani shared that “The DTI is always one with the government’s commitment to a free market system. It is important to underscore that the cooperation agreement signed today will not only strengthen collaboration between these business organizations but will also play a pivotal role in fostering deeper economic ties between the Philippines and Canada.”

PTIC-Toronto also supported PCCI’s business mission to Canada, helping identify opportunities to strengthen trade and investment ties between the Philippines and Canada.

The PCCI promotes and supports the drive for globally competitive Philippine enterprises in partnership with government, local chambers, and other business organizations.  PCCI President Eunina Mangio represented the chamber during the signing, while CABC President Wayne Farmer signed on behalf of the council.

“This MOU represents our shared commitment to deepening Philippines-Canada economic relations and creating substantial value for our business communities. Together, we will work to reduce trade barriers and enable businesses of all sizes to participate in the growing cross-Pacific marketplace.” said PCCI President Mangio.

“We are excited about the prospects of collaborating to the benefit of our members seeking to increase trade and investment in South-East Asia and our strong Canadian Philippines diaspora population. This strategic alliance comes at a time that underscores the importance of diversifying commercial partnerships and reinforcing trade with stable partners that share common commercial and community values.” says President Wayne.

In 2012, CABC was established by Canadian private sector companies operating in ASEAN to promote and increase trade relations between Canada and ASEAN. The CABC facilitates trade and investment in the Canada-ASEAN economic corridor through policy advocacy, networking, and education. The CABC currently represents over 80 leading companies doing business or investing between Canada and ASEAN.

Through PTIC-Toronto’s support, the MOU signing serves as a key driver in realizing President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s vision of a Bagong Pilipinas, emphasizing the vital role of private sector involvement in fostering economic growth and development. ♦

Date of Release: 13 May 2025

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