Canada and the Philippines Build Momentum for Food Security Cooperation at Momentum Manila

MANILA, Philippines — The Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada (APF Canada), in partnership with the Canadian Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines, convened leaders from government, business, academia, and industry at Canada-in-Asia: Momentum Manila on 17 November 2025 at Ayala Museum. Held ahead of the Canada-in-Asia Conference 2026 (CIAC 2026) in Singapore, the forum focused on strengthening Canada–Philippines collaboration in food security, agricultural innovation, and agri-food trade facilitation. The event featured discussions among key stakeholders, including Canadian Ambassador to the Philippines His Excellency David Hartman, APF Canada Asia Regional Director Barrett Bingley, Ayala Foundation President and Trustee Tony Lambino, and representatives from the Philippine Department of Agriculture and Canada’s Indo-Pacific Agriculture and Agri-Food Office. A fireside chat and panel discussion brought together experts from government, business, industry, and academia to explore opportunities for greater cooperation in agricultural innovation, trade, investment, and supply chain resilience. Moderated by Christopher Ilagan, President and CEO of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines, the panel featured representatives from Universal Robina Corporation, Grow Indo-Pacific Canada, the Philippine Association of Meat Processors, Inc., and the University of the Philippines Los Baños. Momentum Manila underscored the importance of deepening Canada–Philippines ties and creating practical pathways for collaboration in support of a more resilient and innovative agri-food sector. The event also generated momentum toward CIAC 2026, which will bring together stakeholders in Singapore to continue discussions on food security, infrastructure, and geopolitics. The forum concluded with a networking session, providing participants with opportunities to strengthen partnerships and explore future avenues for Canada–Philippines cooperation.