Cebu: First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos on Friday showcased Filipino culture and hospitality to the spouses of Southeast Asian leaders on the sidelines of the 48th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and Related Summits in Cebu. Araneta-Marcos hosted a cultural and luncheon gathering, featuring traditional performances, local cuisine, and Filipino-made handicrafts.

According to Philippines News Agency, Araneta-Marcos shared in a Facebook post that the guests were greeted with the 'energy and rhythm' of the Sinulog, one of Cebu's most recognized cultural festivals. The First Lady highlighted that Cebuano and Filipino dishes were served during the lunch, offering ASEAN spouses a taste of the country's culinary heritage.

She further introduced the delegates to locally made products crafted by Filipino artisans, including bags, silk scarves, pearls, guitars, and other handcrafted items. Araneta-Marcos emphasized that the gathering aimed to strengthen friendship and cultural understanding among ASEAN member-states beyond formal meetings and discussions.

She noted, "Beyond the meetings and discussions, ASEAN is also about friendship, understanding, and learning from each other," adding that cultural exchange remains an important part of regional cooperation. "And there's no better way to do that than through music, food, and the Filipino hospitality that we are always proud to share," Araneta-Marcos said.

The Philippines hosted the 48th ASEAN Summit and Related Meetings in Cebu, bringing together regional leaders to discuss key political, economic, and security issues.