Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. called for stronger ASEAN unity, sustained dialogue, and adherence to international law as he presented the region's priorities at the 18th BRICS Summit Open Session in New Delhi, India on Sunday. Representing the Association of Southeast Asian Nations as its 2026 chair, Marcos highlighted the bloc's commitment to an open, inclusive, and outward-looking regional community amidst geopolitical and economic challenges.
According to Philippines News Agency, Marcos emphasized that regional and global stability relies on ASEAN's centrality, sustained dialogue, and adherence to a rules-based order anchored in international law. Speaking at the Bharat Mandapam Convention Center, he outlined the Philippines' ASEAN chairship priorities, which include peace and security, prosperity corridors, and people empowerment.
Marcos stated that ASEAN is advancing maritime cooperation, disaster preparedness, and climate security while building resilience against geopolitical and economic shocks. On economic cooperation, he noted that ASEAN is working to strengthen supply chains, energy, and food security through initiatives such as the ASEAN Common Shared Power Grid, the ASEAN Petroleum Security Agreement, and regional rice reserve mechanisms.
Additionally, the Philippines is promoting the Digital Economy Framework Agreement during its chairship and advocating for the safe and ethical adoption of artificial intelligence, particularly among micro, small, and medium enterprises and women-led enterprises. Marcos also highlighted ASEAN's efforts to develop green investment pipelines and a regional plan for climate-ready, food-secure agriculture to support long-term sustainability.
In terms of people empowerment, Marcos mentioned that ASEAN is investing in youth, digital literacy, and resilient families while protecting vulnerable groups. He emphasized ASEAN's strength in consensus, bridge-building, and constructive engagement across regions.
The Philippines was invited to the BRICS Summit as an Outreach Country, allowing Marcos to address the bloc alongside its core members and partner countries. BRICS, originally formed by Brazil, Russia, India, China, and later South Africa, has expanded its membership in recent years and now includes four ASEAN member states. The Philippines has expressed its intent to continue monitoring developments concerning the grouping while engaging constructively when appropriate.
Marcos concluded by congratulating Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and India on its BRICS chairship.
