President Marcos arrived in Manila around 10:00 PM Friday after a four-day visit to Vientiane, Laos where he attended the 44th and 45th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summits and Related Summits.
The Chief Executive reported successful engagements with his fellow ASEAN leaders and dialogue partners. He said he was able to push for the country’s interests before the regional gathering, particularly in relation to its maritime issues in the West Philippine Sea.
“I reaffirmed that the Philippines will continue to defend our sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction in the West Philippine Sea, in accordance with international law,” President Marcos said in his arrival statement at the Villamor Air Base.
“The Philippines is continuing to strengthen its partnerships with all countries who share our values and our commitment to peace and the rule of law,” he said.
According to the President, ASEAN leaders agreed to closely work together in promoting sustainable agriculture to achieve long-term food security, collaborate to support the region’s small businesses, and galvanize efforts to support the digital transformation of different economies.
There are also efforts in ASEAN to promote inclusive and sustainable tourism across the region, which would complement the Philippines’ initiatives in positioning itself as a prime destination for sustainable tourism.
President Marcos also touched on the issues of climate change—a timely discussion point as the Philippines will host the Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction in Manila next week.
The Filipino head of state also engaged with the business sector of ASEAN as well youth representatives to exchange ideas on how to best promote prosperity and welfare of the people and the entire region.
President Marcos also thanked Laos for its successful chairmanship of the ASEAN this year, adding that he looks forward to Malaysia’s hosting next year.
