Manila, Nov. 14 -- A safe digital economy for the 11-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has been assured following the signing of the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) Saturday.



Trade and Industry Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque, in her speech during the signing ceremony at a hotel in Pasay City, said the agreement brings the regional bloc's economies closer amid trading now done beyond physical borders.



"DEFA is a landmark achievement, not only for ASEAN but for the global digital economy. As the world's first region-wide digital economy agreement of its kind, it places ASEAN at the forefront of efforts to build a more connected, trusted, and inclusive digital future," she said.



DEFA is among t...