Marcos Reaffirms Philippines’ Commitment to Regional Unity Ahead of 47th ASEAN Summit

 Kuala Lumpur: Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has reaffirmed his nation’s commitment to deepening regional cooperation and promoting the well-being of both Filipinos and the wider Southeast Asian community as the Philippines prepares to assume the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2026.

Before departing for Kuala Lumpur on Saturday to attend the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits, President Marcos expressed strong support for Malaysia’s leadership and its theme of “Inclusivity and Sustainability.”

“I will join fellow ASEAN leaders in reaffirming our commitment to ASEAN Centrality as we navigate pressing regional and global challenges, including developments in the South China Sea, the situation in Myanmar, threats to regional peace and maritime security, as well as the far-reaching impacts of climate change, economic volatility, and transnational crime,” Marcos said.

His remarks, also shared on Radio Television Malacañang (RTVM), underscored the Philippines’ vision for a more people-centered, transparent, and future-ready ASEAN. Marcos emphasized that ASEAN’s collective strength depends on the progress and accountability of each member state.

During the summit, President Marcos is scheduled to attend 14 leaders’ meetings and participate in three key signing ceremonies: the Declaration on the Admission of Timor-Leste as ASEAN’s 11th Member, the Second Protocol to Amend the ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement (ATIGA), and the ASEAN-China Free Trade Area 3.0 Upgrade.

Malaysia, which currently chairs ASEAN, will host the 47th ASEAN Summit from October 26 to 28 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.

The Philippines will officially take over the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2026, marking another milestone in the region’s continued pursuit of unity, sustainability, and shared prosperity.

— Voice of Malaysia News