Jose Ma. Concepcion III Takes Chair of ASEAN Private Sector Group at Chairman's Night

It was a night of celebration, bringing together heavy-hitters from business, government, and the diplomatic corps who came to show their support for ASEAN and the opportunities it presents for all sectors of society. Hosting the festivities was the chair of the ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN–BAC) for 2026, Jose Ma. “Joey” Concepcion III. The event, called “Chairman’s Night,” was held at the Manila Polo Club on Dec. 16, 2025, with 500 select guests including First Lady Louise “Liza” Araneta-Marcos, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina Roque, and Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Undersecretary Hellen Dela Vega, who is also the director-general for operations of the ASEAN 2026 National Organizing Council. A short program highlighting the significance of the country’s chairship of ASEAN in 2026, a once-in-11-years event for the Philippines. The evening ended on a high note with energetic music and festive food accompanying the excited conversation among the attendees.