A momentous occasion, and the Clooneys, too

The Philippines has formally announced its chairship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) ahead of next year’s summits, in a grand ceremony at historic Intramuros.

Next year’s significant gathering of regional leaders has occupied First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos’ time over the past weeks and months.

Mrs. Marcos couldn’t contain her excitement as the 10 neighboring member-states will rediscover the beauty that has cemented the Philippines as the Pearl of the Orient.

“Welcome to the Philippines, ASEAN family!” the First Lady said.

“We’re kicking off our 2026 Chairship with a year of meetings, culture, and collaboration across our stunning cities — Manila, Cebu, Iloilo, Bohol, Boracay, Laoag, Tagaytay and Clark,” she said.

The locations will be the venues for high-level meetings of the 11-member regional bloc with other countries that are friends of ASEAN.

Through these places and meetings, Mrs. Marcos hopes the guests will experience the world-class Filipino hospitality.

“May they feel the kindness, energy, and generosity that make our country unforgettable,” she said.

Before the ASEAN launch, the First Couple met with acclaimed film actor George Clooney and his wife, human rights lawyer Amal Clooney, where they discussd press freedom and the protection of human rights.

“What a joy it was spending time with Amal and George Clooney. Our conversation about the Clooney Foundation for Justice, especially their work on press freedom and protecting human rights, was truly inspiring,” Mrs. Marcos said.

“Hearing firsthand how passionately they fight for the vulnerable reminded me of the power of compassion anchored in the rule of law,” she added.

Afterwards, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. showed George Clooney around Malacañang as their spouses did their own tour.

“I truly cherished our exchange, and I hope they felt the warmth of the Filipino spirit during their visit to our country,” the First Lady said.