Filipinos from 30 countries gathered in Pasay City on Tuesday to attend the 2026 Filipino Diaspora Summit, aiming to strengthen connections between overseas Filipino communities and the Philippines, and to promote their participation in the nation’s future development.
Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) Chairperson Dante Ang II reiterated in his opening speech that the government will deepen interactive cooperation with global Non-Resident Filipinos (NRFs), and affirmed their important contribution to national development.
He pointed out that, according to official data, there are around 10.8 million overseas Filipinos worldwide, of which about 60% belong to the NRF group.
“These include all of you attending today’s meeting—long-term immigrants, Filipinos married to foreign nationals, dual citizens, diaspora professionals, and their descendants,” he said.
He added that NRFs comprise citizens, permanent residents, professionals, entrepreneurs, artists, scientists, educators, and community leaders spread across over 200 countries and territories.
Ang stated that past discussions about overseas Filipinos have mostly focused on remittances and economic contributions, but the CFO now emphasizes their diverse roles in national development.
He stressed that overseas Filipinos are not only economic contributors, but also key partners in promoting knowledge exchange, building international networks, and spreading Filipino culture.
“They share knowledge, build global connections, promote business development, and act as ambassadors of the Filipino spirit,” he said.
This summit coincides with the 46th anniversary of the CFO, with about 350 NRFs, government officials, business representatives, and civil society organizations participating to exchange experiences and explore development opportunities.
The CFO pointed out that this summit symbolizes a “paradigm shift” in the Philippines’ diaspora policies, positioning NRFs as important strategic partners driving transformation in cultural, economic, and political spheres.
During the summit, delegates discussed issues such as the influence of diaspora policies, investment and entrepreneurship, cultural heritage, and participation of young diaspora members.
Dante Ang II stated that in today’s highly connected world, NRFs have become an important source of the Philippines’ soft power, and their achievements and influence have increased the country’s visibility on the international stage.
“Protecting identity is not only about remembering one’s roots, but also about ensuring that culture and traditions are preserved and passed on throughout the world,” he said.