Manila: The Philippines has officially taken on the role of chair for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 2026, preparing to host approximately 650 summits and meetings over the year. Foreign Affairs Deputy Assistant Secretary Domic Xavier Imperial emphasized that as chair, the Philippines will focus on ensuring ASEAN's commitment to peace, stability, regional integration, and social inclusion.
According to Philippines News Agency, Imperial stated during a press briefing in Pasay City that the Philippines is devoted to providing steady leadership and principled engagement, aiming to strengthen ASEAN for the future. The 48th ASEAN Leaders' Summit and Related Summits are scheduled to occur in Cebu from May 8 to 9, followed by the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits from November 10 to 12 at the newly-renovated Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City. Prior to these summits, Cebu will host the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Retreat from January 25 to 29, and the ASEAN Tourism Forum from January 26 to 30.
The Philippines will also spearhead the commemorative events for the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC) on July 24 at the PICC. TAC is a legally-binding agreement promoting peaceful coexistence, trust, and stability among regional countries, signed by 55 parties including the United States, China, Japan, France, Canada, the European Union, India, and Russia.
In the same press briefing, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Mari Grace Preciosa Castelo highlighted that the 2026 ASEAN hosting reflects the Philippines' dedication to multilateralism and leadership in fostering regional unity. She noted that the chairship presents an opportunity for the Philippines to promote regional peace, prosperity, and empowerment of people.
ASEAN National Organizing Council Director General Ma. Helen De La Vega assured that Manila will responsibly manage its budget while advancing three regional priorities: peace and security, prosperity, and people empowerment. She stressed the importance of balancing high ASEAN chairship standards with the responsible, sustainable, and accountable use of national and natural resources.
The Philippines is set to host 208 clustered meetings, totaling over 650 meetings throughout the year, including 104 working group level meetings and 24 ministerial meetings. The ASEAN NOC has confirmed that tight security measures will be in place, especially for the leaders' summits in May and November. However, as of Thursday, there is no official information regarding the attendance of US, Russia, and China leaders at these summits. Myanmar's participation will continue as in previous high-level ASEAN meetings, with representation limited to non-political figures.
Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police (PNP) is finalizing security measures for the ASEAN-related events in Cebu this month. The ASEAN Tourism Ministers' Meeting and the Foreign Ministers' Meeting are set for the last week of January in Cebu. Acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. announced that security deployment plans are in place for both the Sinulog Festival and the ASEAN events. He assured the safety of all delegates, including foreign dignitaries, and noted that no security threats have been identified related to these events.
