A stitch in time saves nine. The proverb was on the mind of First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos as she met with her team, as well as some Cabinet secretaries, to discuss preparations for the country’s hosting of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and Related Summits only months away in 2026.

“Just got back from the 47th ASEAN Summit in Malaysia, where they officially turned over the ASEAN Chairship to the Philippines,” Mrs. Marcos said. “Now the real work begins!”

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. received the ASEAN chairship gavel from Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in October, marking the country’s takeover of the leadership of the regional bloc.

As the President was scheduled to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit in South Korea shortly after the Asean summit, the Philippine government officials were not able to meet.

Landmark event

The First Lady’s office has been busy leading the preparations for the next regional gathering, including the renovation of the Philippine International Convention Center, which will serve as the main venue for the ASEAN summit.

Mrs. Marcos will host the spouses of the Asean leaders while President Marcos will engage with the national leaders in high-level meetings.

In 2026, coinciding with the country’s hosting of the regional gathering, China and ASEAN are expected to finalize the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea, with a possible signing ceremony held in the Philippines — a momentous occasion for both the regional bloc and China.

President Marcos said the country is ready to host the next ASEAN meeting, after the successful event in Kuala Lumpur, and is looking forward to seeing his friends and fellow leaders in Manila.

In a few weeks, the government is set to share more about the progress of the Philippines’ hosting of ASEAN.