ASSA Sustainability Summit 2025

Sustainability Summit at the ASEAN Social Security Association (ASSA).

Last updated 14 August 2026

The ASSA Way: People, Prosperity and Planet

Government Service Insurance System, PHILIPPINES

20 – 22 MARCH 2025

Promotional poster for The ASSA Sustainability Summit, themed 'The ASSA Way: People, Prosperity, and Planet', held in Palawan, Philippines on March 20–22, 2025. The event marks the 41st Philippines ASSA 2024–2025 presidency. The poster features a tropical beach and ocean backdrop with illustrated sea turtle, coral, and foliage. Logos of ASSA and the Philippine Social Security Association are displayed at the top.

Recognising the growing impact of climate change across the ASEAN region, ASSA, as a regional body composed of institutions whose primary mandate is social protection, acknowledges the urgent need for a unified and strengthened response. This summit provides a timely and crucial platform to formalise our existing commitments to environmental stewardship and social inclusion.

El Nido, Palawan, with its breathtaking natural beauty, offers an ideal and inspiring location for this Sustainability Pledge Summit. Its stunning landscapes, vibrant coral reefs, and unique ecosystem make it a living example of the delicate interplay between humanity and the environment.

Catch-up on the highlights of the summit here:

Welcoming Remarks (opens in new tab)

Event Highlights (opens in new tab)

Signing of the ASSA Sustainability Pledge (opens in new tab)

Group photo of delegates at The ASSA Sustainability Summit, held in Palawan, Philippines in March 2025 under the 41st Philippines ASSA 2024–2025 presidency. Approximately 20 participants pose on and in front of a stage, linking arms in the ASEAN way gesture. ASEAN member state flags are visible in the background alongside a large screen displaying the event branding.

Conference Topics

Employees Compensation Commmission (ECC) and the Future of Workers Rehabilitation [PDF, 4.30 MB] (opens in new tab)

By Atty. E. Patrice Jamaine T. Barron, Chief, Appeals Division, ECC Philippines

Health Insurance and Environmental Stewardship: A Vital Connection [PDF, 1.32 MB] (opens in new tab)

By Dr. Edwin M. Mercado, President and Chief Executive Office, PhilHealth, Philippines

ESG Framework for Enhancing Social Security [PDF, 3.00 MB] (opens in new tab)

By Ms. Eva B. Arcos, SSC Commissioner, Representing Labour, SSS, Philippines