DFA Secretary Highlights Economic and Tourism Benefits of 2026 ASEAN Hosting
Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro has emphasized that the Philippines' hosting of the 2026 Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit will significantly boost the country's economy and tourism sector. The statement was made during the official launching of the ASEAN School Tour at Holy Angel University (HAU) in Angeles City on Tuesday, January 20, 2026.
Strategic ASEAN Meetings Schedule for 2026
The Philippines officially began its hosting duties on January 1, 2026, with a comprehensive schedule of meetings and events planned throughout the year. The major summits include the 48th ASEAN Summit scheduled for May 8 to 9 in Cebu City, followed by the 49th Summit from November 10 to 12 in Manila. These gatherings will focus on critical regional issues under the unifying theme "Navigating Our Future, Together", with particular attention to peace initiatives, prosperity corridors, and people empowerment programs.
Secretary Lazaro highlighted that 2026 represents an exceptional opportunity for the Philippines to showcase its best attributes to the international community. Beyond promoting the country's beautiful destinations, the hosting will demonstrate the Philippines' world-famous hospitality and renowned expertise in organizing and managing large-scale international conferences. The ASEAN Tourism Forum, scheduled in Cebu from January 28 to 30, 2026, represents just one of the numerous events that will draw international attention to Philippine capabilities.
Educational Opportunities and Regional Cooperation
During the forum at Holy Angel University, Secretary Lazaro led extensive discussions about academic scholarship programs available across ASEAN countries and employment opportunities within the region facilitated by DFA assistance. "With education being one of ASEAN's top priorities, opportunities have been opened up for the youth to study, not just in schools and universities in Southeast Asia, but in countries outside the region as well," Lazaro explained to the academic community.
The DFA Secretary specifically encouraged Holy Angel University, as a distinguished member of the ASEAN University Network, to actively participate in international events and conferences. She recommended engagement in educational fairs, roadshows, and embassy-assisted education promotions to further enrich the institution's diverse student body and academic offerings.
Historical Significance and International Spotlight
The 2026 hosting carries additional historical significance as ASEAN celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC). The Philippines assumes leadership with a clear vision for regional cooperation and development. The country will welcome eleven ASEAN leaders, numerous dialogue partner heads of state, and hundreds of international delegates throughout the year, placing the Philippines firmly in the global spotlight.
Holy Angel University holds the distinction of being the first educational institution visited by Secretary Lazaro as part of the ASEAN School Tour initiative. The event was attended by HAU President Leopoldo Jaime Valdes, DFA Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro, and HAU Center for Kapampangan Studies Assistant Director Myra Lopez, marking an important collaboration between government and academic institutions in promoting ASEAN awareness and opportunities.
