Philippine President Ferdinand R Marcos Jr has pledged to make inclusivity and sustainability the core focus of the Philippines’ 2026 chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
In a video message following his return from the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits in Kuala Lumpur, Marcos reaffirmed the country’s readiness to host the next round of meetings under the theme “Navigate Our Future, Together.”
“The leaders and I spoke about future-proofing our region through economic cooperation and sustainable growth,” Marcos said, according to the Philippine News Agency (PNA).
He said the Philippines would build on Malaysia’s theme of inclusivity and sustainability, and lead ASEAN forward as the region faces shared challenges.
Marcos noted that this year’s summit provided a platform for Southeast Asian leaders to discuss geopolitical tensions and economic strategies, including issues in the West Philippine Sea and the situation in Myanmar.
He hailed Timor-Leste’s full accession as ASEAN’s 11th member as a “historic step that reaffirms ASEAN’s commitment to unity and inclusivity,” adding that the Philippines remained committed to helping the nation integrate fully into the bloc.
The president also said updates to the ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement, amendments to free trade pacts, and the use of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) would strengthen transparency and business confidence.
“This economic development goes hand in hand with strengthening the social-cultural community,” he added, highlighting ASEAN’s ongoing efforts in environmental protection, climate action, education, green jobs and health.
