US Under Secretary of State for Economic Affairs Jacob Helberg is set to visit the Philippines and Singapore from May 17 to 21, 2026, to bolster economic and technology cooperation with Southeast Asian partners, the US Department of State announced on Friday.
Strengthening Regional Partnerships
In a statement released on May 15, the State Department said Helberg will meet with government officials, private sector leaders, and representatives from ASEAN member states. The discussions aim to advance efforts toward building a "secure, resilient, innovation-driven technology ecosystem" under the Pax Silica initiative.
Philippines: Building on Pax Silica Momentum
In the Philippines, Helberg's visit will build on the momentum from last month's Pax Silica Declaration signing ceremony. The trip will focus on advancing the initiative's on-the-ground programs, including discussions about the planned Economic Security Zone in the country.
The proposed zone, announced during the declaration signing, is envisioned as a first-of-its-kind industrial hub intended to boost the production of critical inputs for global supply chains. It also supports the broader goals of the Luzon Economic Corridor.
Singapore: US-ASEAN AI Ministerial Roundtable
In Singapore, Helberg will convene ASEAN government representatives and private sector leaders for the US-ASEAN AI Ministerial Roundtable. The discussions will focus on the growing role of artificial intelligence in the ASEAN region and explore opportunities for regional AI collaboration, including through the US AI Exports Program.
The visit underscores the US commitment to deepening economic ties and fostering innovation in Southeast Asia, aligning with broader strategic objectives in the Indo-Pacific region.
