President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday underscored the Philippines’ commitment to regional unity, calling the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) the country’s “safe harbor” as he highlighted the bloc’s role in strengthening food, energy, digital, and security cooperation amid growing global uncertainties.

In his fifth State of the Nation Address, Marcos said the Philippines used its ASEAN chairmanship this year to push for greater solidarity among member states, particularly in addressing the humanitarian and economic consequences of the conflict in the Middle East.

“We do not have to look, or sail, very far to find dependable allies. ASEAN is our safe harbor, within which we share not only mutual proximity, but affinity,” the President said.

Marcos said ASEAN’s strengthened cooperation has enhanced the region’s resilience against disruptive events while improving the security of individual member states.

He cited several regional initiatives expected to benefit the Philippines, including the ASEAN Plus Three Emergency Rice Reserve System, which will guarantee emergency rice supplies during domestic production shortfalls.

The President also pointed to the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework, saying it will harmonize digital regulations, facilitate cross-border digital transactions, accelerate the growth of the country’s technology sector, expand financial technology and digital banking services, and promote financial inclusion, particularly for small enterprises.

He said the Framework Agreement on Petroleum Security, which provides for the joint stockpiling of energy assets among ASEAN members, has also been ratified.