The Philippines is fully prepared to host the 48th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and Related Meetings in Cebu from May 6 to 8, the ASEAN National Organizing Council (NOC) announced Tuesday during the opening of the International Media Center (IMC).
International Media Center Opens
The IMC, located at the Mactan World Museum, will serve as the central hub for local and foreign media covering the high-level ASEAN meetings across various venues in Cebu. The facility is expected to accommodate an estimated 800 to 1,000 journalists.
ASEAN NOC Director-General Ma. Hellen De La Vega and Presidential Communications Office Acting Secretary Dave Gomez led the opening ceremony, joined by Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro and Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Cynthia Chan.
Summit Schedule
De La Vega confirmed that the summit proper will commence on May 8, preceded by a series of ASEAN senior officials meetings from May 6 to 7. Additionally, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. will meet with leaders of Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, and Malaysia for the Special Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) Summit on May 7.
Contingency Plans
During a press conference at the IMC, De La Vega stated that the Philippines is prepared for any contingency, including a tropical cyclone forecast to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility on May 9 or 10. She emphasized that austerity measures are in place to ensure practical hosting while maintaining high standards.
“As we carry out our international commitment, we continue to be mindful of our place in the scheme of things,” De La Vega said. “The unprecedented realities remind us that our preparations must continue to strike a prudent balance -- one that upholds the high standards expected of the ASEAN Chairship, while ensuring that national and natural resources are utilized responsibly, sustainably, compassionately, and accountable for our people's needs.”
Government Support
Presidential Communications Office Acting Secretary Dave Gomez assured full government support to enable timely reporting and seamless coverage of the summit. He reiterated the commitment to facilitating the work of journalists covering the event.
The summit is expected to focus on key deliverables concerning energy, economic cooperation, and food security, among other regional priorities.
