President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has called for stronger unity and cooperation among Southeast Asian nations amid growing geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainty, climate change, and other emerging challenges confronting the region.
In his opening remarks during the 49th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and Related Summits at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City on Sunday, November 15, Marcos emphasized the importance of collective action in addressing challenges that no single country can overcome on its own.
“Where national capacities are tested, regional strength reinforces,” the President said, stressing that ASEAN member states must work together to ensure regional stability and development.
Marcos said the Philippines' chairship this year, anchored on the theme “Navigating Our Future Together,” reflects the shared commitment of the 11 ASEAN member states to move forward despite their differences in history, culture, and circumstances.
He also highlighted the three priorities guiding the country's chairship and the implementation of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045: peace and security anchors, prosperity corridors, and people empowerment.
According to Marcos, the Philippines has pursued stronger maritime cooperation and intensified regional efforts against trafficking, cybercrime, online scams, and other transnational threats.
The country has also advanced initiatives on the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement, the ASEAN Power Grid, stronger trade and supply chain connections, and support for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and creative industries.
The President likewise underscored the importance of cooperation in artificial intelligence, disaster preparedness, social protection, digital resilience among the youth, and the development of the silver economy.
Marcos also cited the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC), emphasizing its enduring principles of mutual respect, renunciation of the threat or use of force, and peaceful settlement of disputes.
He noted that the principles have helped strengthen ASEAN's influence beyond the region.
As the Philippines welcomes fellow Southeast Asian leaders and dialogue partners, Marcos urged them to maintain trust, adaptability, and a shared commitment toward common goals.
“The future is not simply something that awaits us beyond the horizon. It is to where we journey towards together,” he said.
Marcos formally declared the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits open, concluding his speech with “Maraming salamat po. Mabuhay ang ASEAN.”
