Angelina Jolie: Invest in vulnerable communities

MANILA, Philippines — Hollywood actress and humanitarian advocate Angelina Jolie has called for greater investment in vulnerable communities, saying only genuine development can make them self-sufficient and less dependent on external assistance.

Speaking at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Inclusive Growth Summit on Wednesday, Jolie said humanitarian assistance should be more than providing immediate relief, as it should aim for creating long-term opportunities in education, livelihood and economic development.

Jolie discussed her decades-long engagement in Cambodia, emphasizing the resilience of its people and the importance of sustained commitment to communities in achieving lasting social change.

“These are not poor cultures. These are not poor countries. These are rich countries, strong people, brilliant people, rich resources, nature, capacity,” Jolie said.

Jolie and Filipino theater actress and singer Lea Salonga took part in the 2026 ASEAN Inclusive Growth Summit held at Shangri-La The Fort in Taguig City.