President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has urged Filipinos to support the country's hosting of the 49th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit, highlighting the economic opportunities it brings to local businesses, workers, and various industries.
In a video message on Thursday, November 12, Marcos described the regional gathering as an important opportunity for Southeast Asian countries to strengthen cooperation and address common challenges, including rising oil and food prices, economic uncertainties, security concerns, and the looming threat of El Niño.
“Marami sa mga problemang ito ay hindi nating kayang solusyonan na mag-isa, kaya't napakahalaga ng ASEAN,” Marcos said.
He added that face-to-face discussions among regional leaders would help strengthen trust and pave the way for concrete agreements.
“Iba pa rin kapag personal na nagkikita ang mga leader, mas malalim ang pag-uusap, mas napapalakas ang tiwala, at mas madaling magkasundo sa mga konkretong hakbang,” he said.
As this year's ASEAN chair, Marcos said the Philippines has an opportunity to influence the regional agenda and prioritize issues affecting ordinary Filipinos, particularly fuel and food prices, security, agriculture, employment, and livelihood.
The President also highlighted the economic opportunities generated by the country's preparations for the summit, particularly for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and workers across different industries.
He cited local weavers, garment makers, designers, artists, performers, production crews, culinary experts, food manufacturers, hotel and hospitality workers, transport providers, and souvenir makers among those benefiting from the increased demand for goods and services.
“Ngayong taon lamang na ito, dahil sa mga summit at related meetings na naganap sa buong bansa, bumuhos ang trabaho para sa ating mga local industries o MSME,” Marcos said.
He also expressed gratitude to Filipino workers and entrepreneurs whose products and services are being showcased to international delegates.
“Saludo po ako sa inyong lahat. Maraming salamat,” he added.
The President said the summit also provides an opportunity to promote Philippine tourism, expressing hope that foreign delegates would return to the country for leisure trips and bring their families and friends.
“Sana pagbalik nila rito, ito ay para sa bakasyon na at daladala ang kanilang mga kaibigan at ang kanilang mga pamilya,” he said.
Marcos further underscored the importance of ASEAN relations in advancing trade, regional security, and the protection of Filipinos, including overseas Filipino workers, business owners, and tourists.
He also acknowledged that the summit preparations and security measures may cause temporary inconvenience to the public but appealed for patience and understanding.
“Bagamat may kaunting maaabala nitong susunod na araw, pansamantala namang ito, kaunting pasensya lang,” Marcos said.
He maintained that the potential benefits from regional agreements and employment opportunities would outweigh the temporary disruptions.
The Philippines is hosting the 2026 ASEAN chairship under the theme “Navigating Our Future, Together,” with the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits scheduled in Manila from November 16 to 18.
The high-level gathering is expected to bring together ASEAN leaders and dialogue partners to discuss regional and global concerns, including economic resilience, security, and cooperation.
Marcos ended his message by urging Filipinos to take part in welcoming foreign delegates and contribute to the successful hosting of the regional gathering.
“Lahat tayo ay bahagi nito at may maiambag sa matagumpay na pagdaraos nitong 49th ASEAN Summit,” he said.
