Cebu: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday called for stronger maritime cooperation among Southeast Asian nations amid rising geopolitical tensions and increasing disruptions to global trade routes. Speaking at the opening of the 48th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit Plenary here, Marcos underscored the importance of maintaining safe and stable maritime passage amid the escalating conflict in the Middle East.
According to Philippines News Agency, the President noted that attacks and counterattacks involving Iran, Israel, and the United States have disrupted maritime and air transport routes, including movements through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's key energy shipping corridors. "These developments have disrupted maritime and air transport routes, heightened risks to merchant and non-combatant vessels and aircraft, and affected the flow of energy and essential goods," Marcos said.
Against this backdrop, Marcos said ASEAN must deepen maritime coordination and cooperation to help safeguard regional stability and economic resilience. He said leaders are expected to adopt the ASEAN Leaders' Declaration on Maritime Cooperation, which includes the Philippines' proposal to establish an ASEAN Maritime Center.
The proposed center would serve as a platform for maritime cooperation and coordination among member states and ASEAN-led mechanisms, Marcos said. "As we push forward the implementation of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, we recognize the importance of maritime cooperation," he said.
The Philippines has consistently advocated for stronger maritime collaboration within ASEAN amid growing security and economic concerns in regional waters and global shipping lanes. "Navigating Our Future Together is not only our Chairship theme, but also the task that lies ahead of us," the President said.
Marcos also reiterated ASEAN's call for the peaceful settlement of disputes, protection of civilians, and restoration of safe and unimpeded transit passage in the Strait of Hormuz. The ASEAN Summit in Cebu gathered leaders from the bloc's 11 member-states.
