Special Envoy of the President of the Republic of the Philippines to the Kingdom of Thailand for Digital Communications, Innovation, and Technology Bran Ferrer Reluao has completed a successful series of high-level meetings in Bangkok, marking a significant advancement in the establishment of the Philippines–Thailand Technology Corridor—a strategic framework that aims to strengthen cooperation in digital innovation, startup development, and inclusive economic growth.
As part of his official mission, Special Envoy Reluao met with H.E. Ambassador Millicent Cruz-Paredes, Philippine Ambassador to the Kingdom of Thailand, to present the progress of the Technology Corridor initiative and its growing partnerships with Thai institutions.
The Embassy of the Philippines in Bangkok expressed its full support for the Special Envoy’s diplomatic mission, underscoring the importance of reinforcing bilateral collaboration in innovation, trade, and digital transformation.
Reluao engaged with Thailand’s leading figures in the innovation, venture capital, and technology sectors to strengthen the foundation of the bilateral Technology Corridor.
Among his key engagements was a meeting with the Thai Startup Trade Association (TSA) led by Mr. Tanawit Tonekunya, President of TSA and CEO of Horganice Co., Ltd., together with Mr. Permbun Aimsupasit, Founder and CEO of PraIn FinTech Co., Ltd.; Ms. Sujinun Visitsart, Project Manager; and Ms. Natchaya Nararust, General Manager.
The discussions focused on startup cooperation, talent exchange, and fostering a shared ecosystem of innovation between the Philippines and Thailand.
Reluao also met with the Thailand Venture Capital Association (TVCA), headed by its President, Mr. Thanapong Na Ranong, to discuss collaboration between Thai venture capital firms and emerging Philippine startups. The dialogue highlighted the role of venture funding and cross-border investments in expanding opportunities for both nations’ digital economies.
At TechSauce Media, led by Ms. Oranuch Lerdsuwankij, Co-Founder and CEO, and Ms. Pompunsa Khotchaprasert, Business Development Manager, Reluao discussed strategic media and ecosystem initiatives aimed at elevating ASEAN’s (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) innovation landscape and promoting stronger linkages between Philippine and Thai technology enterprises.
Further engagements were held with the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), represented by Prof. Siddarth Jabade, Vice President for Administration and Development; Prof. Dieter Trau, Ph.D., Director of the AIT Entrepreneurship Center; and Mr. Sanjeet Amatya, Director for Public Affairs. The meeting focused on establishing academic partnerships, fostering entrepreneurship, and promoting innovation research and training programs for youth.
Reluao also met with the leadership of Krungsri Finnovate, the venture capital arm of Krungsri Bank, represented by Ms. Palida Artispong, Acting Managing Director; Ms. Suwarathon Bhumkittipiwat, Investment Manager; Ms. Saijai Pongsripetch, Senior Portfolio Growth Manager; and Ms. Praphasiri Atthachin, Head of Accelerator and Ecosystem. The discussion centered on collaboration in financial technology, venture capital expansion, and startup accelerator programs that could benefit both Thai and Philippine entrepreneurs.
He likewise engaged with the National Innovation Agency (NIA), represented by Dr. Chaiyatorn “Pocky” Limapornvanich, Director of Innovation Strategy, and Mr. Jittrapon Jirakulsomchok, Senior Innovation Developer, to explore joint innovation, foresight initiatives, and policy cooperation under the Technology Corridor framework.
In his statement, Bran Ferrer Reluao remarked, “The Philippines–Thailand Technology Corridor is more than an agreement—it is a vision of partnership built on innovation, trust, and shared progress. Through digital collaboration, our nations can lead ASEAN toward an inclusive and technology-driven future.”
At the conclusion of his engagements, the leaders and organizations from Thailand’s technology and private sector signified their cooperation and support for the Philippines–Thailand Technology Corridor, affirming a unified commitment to strengthen bilateral innovation and digital partnership between the two nations. (PR)
