President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. formally opened the 48th ASEAN Summit at the Mactan Expo in Lapu-Lapu City on Friday, May 8, 2026, emphasizing unity, resilience, and stronger regional cooperation.
Call for Unity Amid Global Challenges
In his opening statement, Marcos stressed that ASEAN nations must respond with unity, wisdom, and determination as the region confronts the impact of the Middle East conflict and other global challenges.
"We meet at a time of considerable challenge across our region and beyond," Marcos told delegates and leaders from the 10-member regional bloc.
Recalibrating the Summit
He noted that the volatile situation in the Middle East continues to threaten livelihoods, economies, and lives, forcing ASEAN member states to adapt their approaches and strengthen coordination.
Marcos said the Philippines has recalibrated its hosting of the summit by reducing unnecessary movements and shifting some meetings to virtual platforms in response to the ongoing crisis.
"Despite the said calibration, we strive to remain responsive to the needs of our ASEAN community and focus on fulfilling our chairship goals," the president said.
Summit Theme
Under the Philippines' chairmanship, this year's summit carries the theme "Navigating Our Future Together."
