This session presented ASEAN’s strategy for transforming food systems and guided support from ADB and development partners. It highlighted evidence, country experiences, and investment pathways that could turn regional commitments into scalable action. The discussion focused on aligning priorities, mobilizing finance, and strengthening cross-sector collaboration for resilient and nutrition-sensitive agrifood systems.
Welcome Remarks
Winfried Wicklein, Director General, Sectors Department 2, ADB
Setting the scene: Agriculture, water, and natural capital strategies
Máximo Torero, FAO Chief Economist
Keynote
Jerome Oliveros, Undersecretary, Department of Agriculture, Republic of the Philippines
Panel discussion: Opportunities in transforming food system under the ASEAN Vision for Food, Agriculture and Forestry Towards 2045:
Panelists:
- Boundeth Southavilay, Director General Department of Planning and Cooperation, Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, Lao PDR
- Martinho Laurentino Soares, Director General Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Forestry, Timor-Leste
- William Dar, President, InangLupa Movement Inc.
- Mercedita Sombilla, Center Director, Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture
- Jesse Teo, Chief Financial Officer, Monde Nissin
Moderator: Dulce Carandang, FAO Philippines
