Palawan Summit to Mark Launch of ASEAN’s Social Security Sustainability Initiative

Southeast Asia’s best social security executives will converge on Palawan, Philippines from March 20, 2025- March 22, 2025 for a record setting gathering, the launch of the ASEAN Social Security Association (ASSA)’s sustainability program. The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), led by President Arnulfo Veloso will head the project as ASSA chair for 2024-2025.

The project will establish a new paradigm that intersects social protection, economic development and environmental sustainability and create an important precedent for the future of social security in the region. Veloso underscored that Palawan, which has a unique combination of economic development and environmental conservation is the ideal setting for this ambitious undertaking. He stressed the need to balance current requirements and future sustainability in social security schemes.

Representatives from ASEAN countries such as Brunei, Cambodia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore and Philippine delegates from respective social security agencies will attend the summit. Additionally, Philippine cabinet secretaries from the country’s Departments of Environment and Natural Resources, Tourism, Finance and Foreign Affairs have been invited.

The event seeks to encourage cooperation between ASEAN, knowing well that by doing things together, the region will be able to solve common problems better than individually. With collective resources in excess of USD 1 trillion ASEAN social security organizations are well positioned to lead sustainable growth and economic development throughout the region.

The summit will be a turning point for social security, enhancing regional cooperation and promoting the welfare of ASEAN citizens.