Philippine First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos with UAE Minister of Culture Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi during her visit to the UAE on November 26, 2024.  ARCHIVE

First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos will represent the Philippines at the World Governments Summit (WGS), set to take place in Dubai from February 11 to 13. This global event will gather more than 200 world leaders, heads of state, and business executives to discuss key issues surrounding governance, technology, and economic development. Presidential Communications Acting Secretary Cesar Chavez confirmed that Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. would not be attending this year’s summit, citing his recent visit to the UAE in November 2024, where he met with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Mrs. Marcos will take part in critical discussions on international collaboration, addressing key topics such as climate adaptability and innovative government models. According to the WGS official website, she will deliver a special address at the Collaborative Models for Development Forum on February 12 and in the Climate Adaptability and Energy Forum on February 13. The 2025 WGS is themed Shaping Future Governments, with a focus on fostering international cooperation and developing strategic solutions for governance challenges. The event will feature insights from global thought leaders and policymakers, aiming to equip governments with innovative approaches for the future. Among the high-profile speakers at this year’s summit are Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai, Alibaba Group Chairman Joseph Tsai, and Roblox CEO David Baszucki. Additionally, Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison is expected to deliver a keynote address on the intersection of artificial intelligence and governance. The event will also host several heads of state, including Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, and Kuwaiti Prime Minister Ahmad Al Abdullah Al Sabah. Minister of Cabinet Affairs and Chairman of the WGS Organisation, Mohammad Al Gergawi, revealed that over 30 heads of state and 80 international organizations will be present, with more than 6,000 participants expected. Artificial intelligence and digital transformation are set to be key focus areas. “We will be having tech leaders from both the East and the West, and that is something very important,” said Al Gergawi. “It will be interesting to hear the perspectives of Chinese and U.S. tech leaders on the future of AI.” The WGS will also recognize outstanding contributions through several awards, including the Best Minister in the World Award, Creative Government Innovations Award, Global Award for Best Government Applications, Global Government Excellence Award, and Best Teacher in the World Award. ICA/Expat Media
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