Manila, Sept. 19 -- The Philippines, serving as chair of Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), is set to host a high-level inclusive business forum as part of its push for greater integration of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) into regional and global value chains.

The event, to be held on the sidelines of the 58th ASEAN Economic Ministers' (AEM) Meeting, is scheduled Sept. 22 at the Likhang Filipino Exhibition Hall in Pasay City.

In a pre-event presser on Saturday, Trade Undersecretary Ceferino Rodolfo said the meeting reflects ASEAN's "commitment to sustaining growth and ensuring that economic development remains inclusive and people-centered."

"When ASEAN promotes inclusive business models, more MSMEs, farmers,...