Philippines Hosts ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Retreat in Cebu City
Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro formally inaugurated the 2026 Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Foreign Ministers' Retreat on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at the Nustar Hotel in Cebu City. This significant event marks the beginning of the ASEAN calendar under the Philippines' chairship, bringing together top diplomats from the region to address pressing issues.
Lazaro Highlights Evolving Security Challenges
In her opening remarks, Secretary Lazaro emphasized the core realities confronting Southeast Asia, particularly focusing on security challenges that have rapidly evolved and diversified. She stated that the global geopolitical security environment has become more challenging, complex, and interconnected, directly impacting regional stability.
Lazaro pointed out specific concerns affecting the area:
- Tensions at sea that continue to pose threats to maritime security.
- Protracted internal conflicts within member states that hinder peace efforts.
- Unresolved border and humanitarian issues that require urgent attention.
She further noted that developments and unilateral actions outside Southeast Asia also play a role in affecting regional stability, potentially eroding multilateral institutions and the rules-based international order.
ASEAN Principles as a Foundation for Peace
Secretary Lazaro underscored the enduring importance of ASEAN's time-honored principles in navigating these challenges. She highlighted that restraint, dialogue, and adherence to international law are crucial for preserving peace and stability for the peoples of Southeast Asia. These principles serve as a guiding framework for the bloc's discussions and decision-making processes.
Purpose and Expectations of the Retreat
The ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Retreat is a regular event held at the start of the ASEAN calendar, designed to allow foreign ministers to assess priorities and exchange views on regional and global developments. While no outcome document is expected from this retreat, the discussions are pivotal in setting the bloc's agenda for the upcoming year.
Key functions of the retreat include:
- Providing a platform for constructive exchanges on issues within Southeast Asia.
- Enabling discussions on global issues that impact the region, fostering a broader perspective.
- Preparing for the ASEAN Summits scheduled for May and November, where leaders from member states and dialogue partners will convene.
Attendance and Representation
All foreign ministers from ASEAN member states are present at the retreat, with one notable exception. Myanmar is represented by a senior official holding the rank of Permanent Secretary of Foreign Affairs, rather than its foreign minister. This arrangement reflects ongoing diplomatic considerations within the bloc.
The gathering in Cebu City underscores the Philippines' active role in regional diplomacy and its commitment to fostering cooperation among Southeast Asian nations. As the host, the Philippines aims to steer discussions toward actionable outcomes that benefit the entire region.
