The APO is holding its 67th Workshop Meeting of Heads of National Productivity Organizations (WSM) in Manila, the Philippines, from 20 to 22 October 2026. Hosted by the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP), the meeting brings together Heads of national productivity organizations (NPOs) and delegates from 19 APO member economies to review progress, exchange experiences, and discuss priorities for advancing productivity under the APO Vision 2030.

The inaugural session featured opening remarks by the APO Director for the Philippines and Secretary of the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development, Dr. Arsenio M. Balisacan; a statement by APO Secretary-General Dr. Indra Pradana Singawinata; and an inaugural address by guest of honor Kim Robert C. de Leon, Secretary of the Department of Budget and Management of the Philippines.

In his statement, Secretary-General Dr. Indra highlighted the significance of holding the WSM in Manila in the year of the APO’s 65th anniversary, noting the city’s historic connection with the founding of the organization. He emphasized that the meeting comes at an important stage as member economies move from planning into implementation of the Strategic Partnership Program (SPP) under the APO Vision 2030. He encouraged NPO Heads to share practical experiences, challenges, and lessons learned to help strengthen SPP Plan implementation, promote cooperation, and achieve measurable results across APO members.

The inaugural session also featured the launch of the APO Guidebook on Green Productivity and the presentation of an APO Accreditation Body certificate recognizing the reaccreditation of the Mongolian Productivity Organization Certification Body for a second term, until 5 December 2030.

Another highlight was the signing of the memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the Department of Budget and Management and the DAP for the Public Financial Management Microcredentialing Program for Budget Officers and Analysts. The MOU was signed by Secretary for Budget and Management Kim Robert C. de Leon and DAP Acting President and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Leocadio Sotor Sebastian.

During the first day, delegates reviewed key APO programs and initiatives, including the 2025 Annual Project Review, the Center of Excellence Program, the APO Liaison Officers’ Meeting, and the APO Genuine AI Action initiative. Discussions also focused on the progress and implementation of SPP Plan activities in 2026 and plans for 2027, including presentations by NPOs on their respective implementation experiences.

The 67th WSM will continue through 22 October 2026.