The Philippines is ready to host the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in 2026, superseding Myanmar, President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. announced on Tuesday, September 5.
"It is my pleasure to announce that the Philippines is ready to take the helm and chair of ASEAN in 2026. We will fortify the foundations of our community-building and navigate ASEAN as it embarks on a new chapter," he announced in his address during the Retreat Session of the 43rd ASEAN Summit held at the Jakarta Convention Center (JCC) in Jakarta, Indonesia.
Marcos said he looks forward to the support from other Southeast Asian nations.
He added that the Philippines will continue to work with partners to "strengthen ASEAN Centrality and to promote peace, security, stability, and prosperity in the region."
The President made the hosting announcement after the ASEAN decided that Myanmar would not host the ASEAN 2026 due to domestic issues.
In the same address, Marcos touched on a range of topics including the protection of migrant workers in crisis, digital transformation of the economy, support for Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs), and commitment to climate action.
On Monday, Marcos and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos arrived in Jakarta, Indonesia.
On the sidelines of the 43rd ASEAN Summit, the President is also scheduled to attend bilateral meetings with leaders of Vietnam, South Korea, Cambodia, and Timor Leste.
