First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos has received a collection of portrait paintings depicting leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), created by Filipino artist Jun Aquino.

In a social media post, the First Lady expressed her appreciation for the artworks, which were formally turned over through Dr. Jose Goitia and Herbert Martinez.

“A lovely way of sharing Filipino talent and welcoming our guests with something meaningful and personal,” she said in a social media post.

The paintings highlight various ASEAN leaders and are seen as a gesture of cultural diplomacy and artistic tribute.

According to the First Lady, the collection reflects the value of Filipino creativity in fostering meaningful connections with international guests and partners.

Days before the ASEAN Summit 2026, the First Lady is overseeing preparations in Cebu for the annual gathering of the regional bloc’s heads of state.

The Leaders’ Summit will be held on May 7 to 8, with delegations from the 11 ASEAN member states, including the Philippines, expected to be based in Lapu-Lapu City. Key summit activities will take place there, including meetings at the newly constructed Mactan Expo in Mactan Newtown.

Malacañang earlier said preparations for the 48th ASEAN Summit are already in the final phase, where all “strategic, operational, technical, and security“ arrangements have been completed ahead of the event.

Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro said on Tuesday that representatives from the ASEAN Political-Security Community, ASEAN Economic Community, and ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community are expected to attend, although the final list of participants will be confirmed on Wednesday.

Hundreds of foreign dignitaries, including heads of state, diplomats, and business leaders, are anticipated to take part in the summit.