Let us rally behind PBBM like the captain of our basketball team playing in the Olympics!

The Philippines, under the leadership of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., has formally assumed the chairship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) for 2026. The country will lead the regional bloc under the theme “Navigating Our Future, Together,” with a focus on peace and security, prosperity, and people empowerment.

President Marcos accepted the chair’s gavel from Malaysia on 28 October 2025, marking the start of the Philippine term.

1. Focus Areas: The Philippine chairship aims to focus on practical, measurable progress, including regional security, economic stability, and digital transformation.

2. Recalibration: In March 2026, it was reported that President Marcos ordered a “calibration” of the hosting to save on expenses, with many preparatory meetings shifting to a virtual format.

3. High-Level Meetings: The Philippines is scheduled to host the ASEAN Summit in Cebu in May 2026, which is expected to focus on key issues such as regional energy supply.

While some supporters urge national unity behind the President during the international event, opposition groups have also publicly called for his resignation, citing corruption allegations.

The ASEAN chairship is seen as a significant diplomatic test for the Marcos administration.

Last Friday, 27 March, President Marcos said the upcoming ASEAN Summit in May will proceed as scheduled, with leaders prioritizing coordination on urgent issues such as energy, food, and security, as well as migrant workers, amid global tensions and the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

What readers say about PBBM’s assumption:

1. Josephine Lascano: Being a Filipino myself, even though I already live in the States, I could only be proud of PBBM. He’s doing a good job. Congrats and God bless, we should support him.

2. Jiarona Leonillo Laureta: While it’s true that in exceptional circumstances a member state may be advised not to assume the ASEAN chairship, this does not apply to the Philippines. Our nation stands as a reliable and respected pillar in the region. Guided by the strong and strategic leadership of President Marcos Jr., the Philippines is fully prepared to advance ASEAN’s priorities with integrity, stability and a vision for strengthened regional cooperation. Congratulations, Philippines!

3. David Seah: Congratulations to the Philippines on chairing the next ASEAN Summit!

4. Rina Fernandez Cedano: Congratulations, Pres. BBM! A true honor for the Philippines and all Filipinos. Filipino ako, proud ako! Mabuhay!

On Respectful Dissent:

1. Although demonstrations during the 2026 ASEAN Summit in the Philippines can be legally valid as expressions of free speech, they might be viewed as improper under local customs of hospitality.

2. While political opposition is expected, diplomatic norms suggest that protests should remain respectful, organized and avoid disrupting the event so as not to bring discredit to the country.

3. Adhere to cultural norms: Philippine culture places a high value on hosting and hospitality. Displays of “great displeasure” (“pahiya,” or humiliation) toward guests in a public forum can be perceived as violating these social norms.

4. Avoid Disrupting the Summit: Protests should not interfere with the movement or security of the foreign leaders, as this would be considered a breach of diplomatic security and international etiquette.

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