Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia — The Philippines is ready to assume the chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 2026, declared President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., pledging a practical, inclusive, and measurable leadership that will deliver real benefits to the people of Southeast Asia.

Speaking before regional leaders at the 47th ASEAN Summit Plenary at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Center, Marcos underscored ASEAN’s role as a “pivotal player in global affairs,” calling on his fellow leaders to seize the moment.

“It is incumbent upon us to seize this opportunity and lead our region towards strengthened stability and progress, alongside our partners,” he said.

He reaffirmed the Philippines’ total commitment to ASEAN Vision 2045 which aims for a “resilient, inclusive, and dynamic” regional community capable of tackling emerging global challenges.

The President lauded Malaysia for its “capable leadership” in hosting this year’s summit and extended his condolences to the people of Thailand on the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit. He also welcomed Timor-Leste as ASEAN’s newest member state.

Advocating for ASEAN centrality

Marcos emphasized that ASEAN must continue to champion dialogue and cooperation amid geopolitical tensions.

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

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

He reiterated the Philippines’ steadfast adherence to international law, citing the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the new Agreement on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) as key frameworks promoting maritime peace and sustainability.

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

Strengthening economic ties

On the economic front, Marcos welcomed 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, which he said reflect ASEAN’s commitment to keeping the markets open, competitive and responsive to global shifts.

He also cited the forthcoming ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement and the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement, noting that both will enhance transparency and predictability while boosting investor confidence.

“These agreements build confidence among businesses and sustain ASEAN’s role as a driver of global growth,” Marcos said.

The President also reaffirmed the Philippines’ support for the ASEAN Infrastructure Fund, calling infrastructure development “a cornerstone of ASEAN’s resilience amid global uncertainties.”

People-centered ASEAN

Marcos vowed to continue the Philippines’ legacy of a people-centered leadership that was last seen during its 2017 ASEAN chairmanship that marked the bloc’s 50th anniversary.

He urged member states to prioritize inclusive growth, stronger social protection systems, and climate resilience.

“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,” he said.

He also expressed support for the upcoming Post-2025 ASEAN Strategic Plan on Environment (ASPEN), calling it essential to addressing “the triple planetary threats of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution.”

As the summit drew to a close, Marcos reaffirmed his vision for ASEAN as a future-ready community built on cooperation and action.

“Our commitments must not remain declarations of resolve,” he said. “They must be translated into consistent and concrete action — because this is our solemn duty to our people and to our shared future.”