Mactan: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. urged Southeast Asian leaders to maintain unity and resilience in the face of geopolitical and economic challenges as he inaugurated the 48th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and Related Meetings on Friday.

According to Philippines News Agency, during his address at the Mactan Expo Center, Marcos highlighted that the region is at a critical juncture due to ongoing conflicts and global disruptions impacting economies, livelihoods, and regional stability. He noted that the current volatile situation in the Middle East is particularly affecting ASEAN economies and communities.

Marcos emphasized the necessity for ASEAN's continued efforts in addressing these challenges head-on. He announced that the Philippines has adjusted its hosting strategy by minimizing non-essential activities and moving some meetings online to cope with the increasing energy and economic pressures stemming from the Middle East conflict. Despite these changes, Marcos affirmed ASEAN's commitment to fostering cooperation and aligning regional responses through various ministerial meetings focusing on economics, agriculture, and energy.

The President stressed that ASEAN's power lies in its unity and collaboration, especially during uncertain times. He remarked that the association's strength is derived not from uniformity but from unity.

Marcos and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos greeted ASEAN leaders and their spouses as they arrived at the summit venue. The attendees included notable leaders such as Brunei Darussalam Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, and others, with Myanmar represented by U Hau Khan Sum, permanent secretary of its Ministry of Foreign Affairs.