President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. affirmed that the Philippines is ready to lead the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) as Chair in 2026, with particular focus on advancing practical, inclusive, and measurable initiatives that directly benefit the peoples of Southeast Asia.

“As the incoming ASEAN Chair in 2026, the Philippines is prepared to lead the first year of implementation of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 and its Strategic Plans,” President Marcos said during his intervention at the 47th ASEAN Summit Plenary held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Center on Sunday.

“We recognize the responsibility of translating long-term aspirations into immediate, concrete action. Our focus will be on initiatives that are practical, inclusive, and measurable,” the President added.

The President underscored that ASEAN’s success will not be judged by the number of policies or frameworks it produces, but by how effectively these initiatives improve the daily lives of its people.

President Marcos also called for unity and cooperation among ASEAN Member States in navigating a time of global uncertainty, stressing that collective action and shared purpose are key to sustaining peace and progress in the region.

“While each of us may hold distinct priorities, ideals, and aspirations, let us remember that what we decide in this room must echo those of the people we serve,” the President said.

“The Philippines is honored to continue the work of those who came before us, and to carry forward the spirit of cooperation that has defined ASEAN since its founding. With conviction and with unity, let us navigate the future, together,” President Marcos added.

The Philippines has hosted the ASEAN Summit four times in 1987, 1999, 2006, and 2017. | PND

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. recognized the United States’ active role in supporting the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) across its three community pillars namely political-security, economic, and socio-cultural.

During his intervention at the ASEAN-US Summit on Monday, President Marcos thanked the United States for its steadfast support in promoting peaceful and sustainable seas.

“We acknowledge the United States’ continued support by co-chairing the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Training Series and Best Practice Manual on International Ship and Port Facility Security Code from 2021-2024, an important initiative aimed at enhancing capacity in the shipping and seafaring industry in ASEAN,” President Marcos said.

The President said the Philippines is looking forward to co-chairing with the United States and the Republic of Korea (ROK) the upcoming ARF Workshop on Best Practices for Port State Measures to Combat Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing, which will strengthen maritime security and sustainability.

President Marcos expressed deep concern over dangerous maneuvers and coercive actions that interfere with legitimate Philippine activities in the West Philippine Sea.

The President said these actions violate international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

“On the South China Sea, it is regrettable that incidents continue to occur in the West Philippine Sea that have put the lives of Philippine personnel and the safety of our vessels and aircraft at risk which violates not only Philippine sovereignty but also the traditional fishing rights of Filipinos, as guaranteed by the 1982 UNCLOS, and the final and binding 2016 South China Sea Arbitration Award, and domestic law,” President Marcos said.

“These incidents notwithstanding, the Philippines will continue to remain firm, calm, and resolute in its commitment to the full implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) and to achieving productive negotiations towards a Code of Conduct that is effective, substantive, and consistent with international law, particularly UNCLOS,” President Marcos stressed.

“This commitment is shared throughout all levels of the government, which desires to conclude an effective and substantive Code of Conduct that can effectively govern the behavior of parties at sea,” the President added.

In tackling transnational crime and terrorism, President Marcos highlighted ongoing collaboration under the ASEAN Plus United States Senior Officials Meeting on Transnational Crime (SOMTC + U.S.) Consultations, focusing on human trafficking, cybercrime, illicit drugs, terrorism, and wildlife and timber trafficking.

The President said that he also looks forward to the Philippines’ co-chairing the 22nd ARF Inter-Sessional Meeting on Counter-Terrorism and Transnational Crime.

“This cooperation is of particular importance to ASEAN, including the Philippines, as we continue to confront emerging challenges such as scam hubs, cybercrimes, and other forms of transnational crime that threaten our region’s peace and security,” President Marcos said.

On the economic front, President Marcos stressed the value of the ASEAN-US Trade and Investment Facilitation Arrangement in supporting trade, MSME development, digital economy initiatives, cybersecurity, and sustainability.

“We recognize that the global economic landscape is marked by uncertainty. ASEAN values its partnership with the United States and seeks to build practical, strategic, and forward-looking collaboration that delivers concrete outcomes for our businesses and citizens alike,” the President said.

President Marcos also noted continued initiatives of ASEAN and the United States to promote people-to-people exchanges that deepen mutual understanding and foster shared values.

The President acknowledged US-supported people-to-people programs, such as Fulbright Scholarship Programs and the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI), as vital for fostering mutual understanding and developing future regional leaders.

“We hope that these valuable initiatives will continue to promote understanding and strengthen lasting connections among our future leaders,” President Marcos said.

In closing, President Marcos welcomed the adoption of the ASEAN–United States Joint Vision Statement, calling it a strategic framework that aligns with ASEAN’s long-term vision and strengthens collaboration for peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.

“This important document embodies our shared aspirations and aligns closely with both the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific and the ASEAN Community Vision 2045,” the President said. | PND

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has called on his fellow leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to seize opportunities to lead the region toward greater stability and progress, in close partnership and cooperation with external allies.

During his intervention at the 47th ASEAN Summit Plenary held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Center on Sunday, President Marcos commended Malaysia’s capable leadership in guiding ASEAN toward development and adoption of key milestones that advance the region’s community-building efforts.

“ASEAN, as we know today, has evolved to become a pivotal player in global affairs,” President Marcos said. “It is incumbent upon us to seize this opportunity and lead our region towards strengthened stability and progress, alongside our partners.”

The President reaffirmed the Philippines’ support for the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific and its alignment with other Indo-Pacific policies and strategies, guided by the principle of ASEAN Centrality.

President Marcos stressed that ASEAN’s approach must focus on fostering cooperation rather than competition.

“Under these commitments, the Philippines urges our partners to enhance our engagements where mutual benefits will prosper,” the President said.

“Let us pursue broader dialogue and deeper cooperation in the maritime sphere and the economic domain,” President Marcos added.

The Chief Executive noted that the commitments are not mere declarations of resolve but must be translated into consistent and concrete action from all parties concerned.

“Our continued pursuit of these measures is not just a protest nor an empty call. It is a solemn obligation to our people, to their livelihoods and communities, and to the values we have pledged to uphold,” President Marcos said.

President Marcos reiterated that the Philippines will continue to pursue mutually beneficial dialogue and cooperation between ASEAN and its external partners, in line with international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

The President underscored that the Philippines is proud to be part of the growing family of States Parties to the UNCLOS on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ Agreement), describing the agreement as a milestone in addressing biodiversity loss and the degradation of ocean ecosystems.

“We commend the initiatives that ensure a peaceful, secure, and just environment in the region,” President Marcos said.

The President likewise commended the gains made by the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Transnational Crime in addressing emerging regional challenges.

President Marcos also expressed support for initiatives that strengthen functional cooperation, dialogue, and capacity-building among ASEAN Member States and Dialogue Partners as measures to promote peace and stability in the region.

Recognizing Malaysia’s successful chairmanship, President Marcos commended the country for completing its deliverables under the theme “Inclusivity and Sustainability.”

President Marcos welcomed the signing of the Second Protocol to Amend the ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement (ATIGA), reaffirming ASEAN’s commitment to keeping regional markets open, competitive, and responsive to global economic shifts.

The President noted that the Philippines looks forward to the ASEAN-China Free Trade Area 3.0 Upgrade, as well as the substantial conclusion of the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement and the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement, which will enhance transparency, stability, and predictability across the region—building confidence among businesses and sustaining ASEAN’s role as a driver of global growth.

President Marcos also reaffirmed the Philippines’ strong support for the ASEAN Infrastructure Fund, highlighting infrastructure development as a cornerstone of ASEAN’s resilience amid global uncertainties.

The President also emphasized the Philippines’ commitment to a future-ready ASEAN where inclusivity and sustainability are upheld through concrete action.

President Marcos added that the Philippines continues to expand social protection coverage, strengthen community-based welfare systems, and promote adaptive social protection in response to disasters and climate-related risks.

The President further reaffirmed the Philippines’ dedication to advancing regional cooperation in health, education, environment, labor, youth, and human rights.

President Marcos also highlighted the importance of the upcoming Post-2025 ASEAN Strategic Plan on Environment (ASPEN) as a unified framework to address the triple planetary threats of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution.

The President then welcomed the completion of the Strategic Plans of the three ASEAN pillars, noting that these will be essential tools to guide the implementation of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 and ensure that ASEAN’s goals are effectively realized. | PND

Malacañang said Philippine enterprises stand to benefit from two trade agreements formally signed during the 47th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and Related Summits held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from October 26 to 28.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., together with his regional counterparts, witnessed the handover ceremony on the Second Protocol to Amend the ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement (ATIGA), during the ASEAN Leaders’ Summit Plenary on Sunday.

President Marcos and other leaders from ASEAN and China are expected to lead the signing ceremony of the ASEAN-China Free Trade Area 3.0 Upgrade on Tuesday.

According to Frederick D. Go, Special Assistant to the President on Investment and Economic Affairs (SAPIEA), the enhanced ATIGA addresses current trade challenges and offers significant benefits through improvements in trade facilitation, transparency and dispute settlement, and the inclusion of new and emerging trade elements.

In a statement issued through Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro, Go said certified traders stand to benefit from the expedited cargo clearance throughout ASEAN through the mutual recognition of Authorized Economic Operators (AEOs).

Businesses will find it easier to comply with administrative requirements on self-declaration of origin, with the implementation of the Electronic Certificate of Origin (e-Form D) and the acceptance of digital documentation.

Go said the strengthened transparency and cooperation provisions of the Agreement will enable ASEAN member-states to better respond to the potential impacts of new trade policies.

“These provisions are particularly beneficial for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), enabling them to prepare for regulatory changes and mitigate adverse effects,” Go emphasized.

Go also said the inclusion of new and emerging issues such as provisions on remanufactured goods, opens avenues for future growth across ASEAN.

In a separate statement issued through the Palace Press Officer, Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro, said the ASEAN-China Free Trade Area (ACFTA) 3.0 Upgrade opens new opportunities for cooperation in areas vital to the region’s future, including the green and digital economies and sustainable supply chain connectivity.

“The ASEAN-China Free Trade Area has long been one of ASEAN’s most important economic partnerships. Now, with the 3.0 Upgrade, both sides are working to make this partnership more modern, more comprehensive, and better aligned with today’s global realities,” Lazaro said.

Lazaro said the Upgraded Protocol also empowers MSMEs to participate more fully in regional value chains, while the strengthened frameworks on fair competition and consumer protection will help ensure inclusive and sustainable growth.

The ACFTA 3.0 Upgrade has included guidance on the following aspects of trade: Competition and Consumer Protection; Digital Economy; Green Economy; Supply Chain Connectivity; and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises.

The original ACFTA provided guidance on Trade in Goods; Rules of Origin; Customs Procedures and Trade Facilitation; Standards, Technical Regulations, and Conformity Assessment Procedures; Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures; Trade in Services; Investment; and Economic and Technical Cooperation. | PND

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Sunday held separate bilateral meetings with leaders from the European Union (EU) and Japan on the sidelines of the 47th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and Related Summits in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, underscoring the Philippines’ commitment to deepening partnerships with ASEAN’s dialogue partners.

During President Marcos’ meeting with President of the European Council António Costa, the EU leader expressed well wishes and full support for the Philippines’ upcoming Chairship of ASEAN in 2026.

The two leaders emphasized the importance of continued engagement and collaboration in trade and reaffirmed commitment to multilateralism and strengthening on the international rules-based order.

President Marcos also held his first bilateral meeting with Japan’s newly elected Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae, personally extending his congratulations to the new head of state.

Both leaders looked forward to celebrating the 70th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Japan in 2026.

President Marcos highlighted the deepening cooperation between the two countries in the defense and security sector, particularly noting the entry into force of the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) between the Philippines and Japan in September 2025.

The two leaders also underscored the importance of the Philippines–United States-Japan Trilateral Cooperation as a cornerstone of regional peace, stability, and development. | PND

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is ready to release his Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN) to the proper authorities, including the Office of the Ombudsman, as long as the process follows the proper procedures set by the anti-corruption body.

In a press briefing in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on Sunday, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the President has already made clear that he would adhere to the established guidelines regarding the release of SALNs of public officials.

“Unang-una, nagsalita na ang Pangulo at siya ay handa naman pong ibigay at ipakita ang kanyang SALN sa proper authority,” Castro said.

“At mayroon naman po na tayong rules or procedure na inilahad ang Ombudsman at sinabi din naman dito na lahat ng request for SALN ay pagbibigyan pero may mga certain guidelines na ibinigay ang Ombudsman. So, ang ehekutibo ay tutugon dito,” she added.

Castro echoed the statement of Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin that SALNs should not be used “indiscriminately” as weapons for political attacks or to discredit government officials.

She confirmed that Cabinet officials held an informal discussion on the issue on Saturday, where they agreed to act in accordance with the Ombudsman’s procedures.

“Kahapon nagkaroon lamang sila ng informal meeting at napag-usapan nga ito… But still nandiyan naman ang procedure na inilahad ng Ombudsman at ang bawat isa naman ay tutugon dito,” said Castro. | PND

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. asserted that the Philippines is ready to assume the Chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 2026, with particular focus on advancing practical, inclusive, and measurable initiatives that directly benefit the peoples in the region.

In a press briefing in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the President made the statement during his intervention at the 47th ASEAN Plenary held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Center on Sunday.

According to Castro, President Marcos emphasized ASEAN’s crucial role in fostering regional stability, cooperation, and progress.

She said President Marcos reiterated the Philippines’ commitment to achieving the ASEAN Vision 2045, which aims to build a resilient, inclusive, and dynamic regional community.

The President extended his gratitude to the Government of Malaysia for its warm hospitality and officially welcomed Timor-Leste as ASEAN’s newest member state.

Castro said the Chief Executive also conveyed his condolences to the people of Thailand on the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit.

President Marcos also underscored the importance of ASEAN Centrality in strengthening peace, stability, and collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region.

The President also highlighted the need for mutual benefit and broader dialogue, while reaffirming the Philippines’ continued commitment to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the Agreement on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ Agreement).

On the economic front, the President cited the signing of the Second Protocol to Amend the ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement (ATIGA) and the ASEAN-China Free Trade Area 3.0 Upgrade, reaffirming the Philippines’ support for open markets, infrastructure development, and sustained regional economic growth.

The President also emphasized the importance of promoting inclusive and sustainable development through strengthened social protection systems, disaster resilience, and environmental cooperation. | PND

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. held bilateral meetings with the leaders of Cambodia, Thailand, and Canada on the sidelines of the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on Sunday.

In his meeting with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, President Marcos reaffirmed the Philippines’ support for the peaceful resolution of the Thai-Cambodian conflict through dialogue and adherence to international law.

In a press briefing at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Center, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said President Marcos was pleased to see developments in the conflict resolution, especially the signing of the Terms of Reference of the ASEAN Observer Team (AOT).

For his part, Prime Minister Hun Manet expressed Cambodia’s strong support for the Philippines’ upcoming ASEAN Chairmanship in 2026.

In his meeting with Thailand Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, President Marcos conveyed his condolences to the Thai people on the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit.

Thailand likewise expressed its full support for the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairmanship next year.

Both leaders affirmed their commitment to work closely to boost tourism, trade and investments, as well as engagements with the private sector.

President Marcos and Prime Minister Charnvirakul also discussed strengthening agricultural exchanges between their countries.

Lastly, President Marcos met with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Joseph Carney where both leaders highlighted strong people-to-people exchanges.

President Marcos thanked Canada for its steadfast support for the Philippines and cited shared values on the rules-based international order, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

Castro said President Marcos and Prime Minister Carney committed to boost cooperation on trade, investment and energy, as well as to continue constructive engagement in ASEAN. | PND

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., together with fellow leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and dialogue partners, attended the opening of the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on Sunday.

Shortly after the opening ceremony, President Marcos and nine other ASEAN leaders signed the Declaration on the Admission of Timor-Leste into ASEAN, officially welcoming the nation as the regional bloc’s 11th member.

Timor-Leste Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmao was present during the historic signing and was joined by Timor-Leste President Jose Ramos Horta. Prime Minister Gusmao delivered remarks after the signing.

The Philippines warmly welcomed Timor-Leste’s accession, describing it as a significant milestone that reaffirms ASEAN’s enduring commitment to unity, inclusivity, and regional solidarity.

As ASEAN’s newest member, Timor-Leste is expected to further strengthen regional cooperation in key areas such as economic growth, people-to-people exchanges, and regional integration.

Timor-Leste, located in the eastern part of the island of Timor, first applied for ASEAN membership in 2011. In 2022, ASEAN leaders agreed in principle to admit Timor-Leste as a member, granting it observer status and participation rights in ASEAN meetings.

Following their progress on a comprehensive roadmap covering the political-security, economic, and socio-cultural pillars, Timor-Leste’s formal admission in October 2025 underscores ASEAN’s continuing commitment to inclusivity and shared prosperity across the region. | PND

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. expressed heartfelt sadness with the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit of Thailand, saying her close friendship with the Philippines and her genuine spirit of compassion have always been a source of strength and inspiration.

“With heartfelt sadness, we mourn the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit of Thailand. Her kindness, grace, and warmth touched so many lives, including ours,” the President said in a statement.

“May her soul find eternal peace, and may her legacy of love continue to inspire us,” the Chief Executive said.

“During this difficult time, our thoughts and prayers are with the Royal Family and the Thai people,” the President added.

The Thai Royal Household Bureau said on Saturday that Thailand’s Queen Mother Sirikit, who brought glamour and elegance to a postwar revival in the country’s monarchy, has died aged 93. PND