President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Sunday called for stronger ASEAN unity and collective action, saying mounting geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainty and transnational threats underscored the need for closer regional cooperation.
Opening the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City, Marcos said the 11-member bloc must draw strength from its shared purpose despite differences among its member states.
“This is the core of what it means to be part of ASEAN: different nations moving with common purpose,” he said.
Marcos cited geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainty, climate change, emerging technologies and transnational threats as challenges confronting Southeast Asia, stressing that the region must respond collectively.
He particularly pointed to developments in the Middle East, which have put ASEAN members at risk and disrupted transportation, energy and food supplies.
“It was precisely the moment for ASEAN to come together to forge a decisive response,” he said.
Marcos recalled that during the 48th ASEAN Summit in Cebu last May, leaders had considered postponing the gathering but ultimately decided to proceed, recognizing that the crisis made regional cooperation even more urgent.
Despite these challenges, he said ASEAN must sustain efforts to advance regional initiatives, including the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement, ASEAN Power Grid, stronger trade and supply-chain links, artificial intelligence development, and support for micro, small and medium enterprises and creative industries.
“No member state possesses every resource, every capability, or every solution required by the challenges and opportunities we face; but where national capacities are tested, regional strength reinforces,” Marcos said.
He urged ASEAN member states and their external partners to use the summit to forge a unified response to current challenges while preparing the region for future generations.
Drawing on the image of the balangay, a traditional Philippine boat, Marcos said regional cooperation required trust, adaptability and a shared commitment.
“As the balangay reminds us, no journey is made by following one direction alone,” he said. “It requires trust among those who travel together, the strength to adjust to changing conditions, and a shared sense of commitment towards our shared goals and common destinations.”
Marcos then formally declared the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits open.
