Cebu: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday hosted a dinner for his fellow Southeast Asian leaders at Shangri-La Mactan, Cebu, on the eve of the 48th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and Related Meetings. Marcos, accompanied by First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, had the opportunity to hold candid talks with the leaders a day before the formal opening of the summit.

According to Philippines News Agency, Marcos expressed the importance of trust within the region in a Facebook post, stating, "We spoke candidly, we listened, and we reminded one another of the trust that holds this region together." He emphasized the Philippines' role as Chair this year, highlighting the nation's honor in guiding ASEAN forward with unity, stability, and shared purpose. Marcos shared photos of the dinner, showcasing interactions with various ASEAN leaders.

In one of the photographs, Marcos was seen in conversation with Brunei Darussalam Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, who was joined by his son, Prince Abdul Mateen. The dinner also provided an opportunity for Marcos to exchange pleasantries with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, and Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong. The ASEAN leaders mingled during the event and participated in a group photo session.

Other leaders present at the dinner included Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, Timor-Leste Prime Minister Xanana Gusmo, Vietnamese Prime Minister Lª Minh Hung, and Myanmar's Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs U Hau Khan Sum. The gathering was also attended by the spouses of the ASEAN leaders.

The 48th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits bring together leaders of the regional bloc to discuss key issues impacting Southeast Asia, such as regional security, economic cooperation, digital transformation, climate action, and maritime concerns. Chaired by the Philippines this year, the summit focuses on regional unity, stability, and inclusive growth.

Established in 1967, ASEAN aims to foster political and economic cooperation, uphold regional peace and stability, and advance shared prosperity among its member states. The summit serves as a platform for ASEAN leaders to strengthen collaboration with dialogue partners and address emerging regional and global challenges.