Global Filipinos from 30 countries gathered on Tuesday for the 2026 Filipino Diaspora Summit, aimed at strengthening engagement between non-resident Filipinos (NRFs) and the Philippines, while enhancing their role in nation-building.
In his opening remarks, Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) Chairperson Secretary Dante Ang II reaffirmed the government’s commitment to deeper engagement with Filipinos abroad, citing their contributions to national development.
Ang said NRFs include Filipino citizens, permanent residents, marriage migrants, professionals, entrepreneurs, artists, scientists, educators, innovators, public servants, and community leaders across more than 200 countries and territories.
He stressed that overseas Filipinos should be seen beyond their economic contributions, noting that while remittances remain significant, their broader value lies in knowledge transfer and global experience.
“They are not only economic actors but partners in nation-building, bringing expertise, global perspectives, and innovations that can help drive the country’s development,” Ang said.
The summit serves as a platform to strengthen ties between the Philippines and its global diaspora and to encourage greater participation in initiatives supporting cultural, economic, and social development.