MANILA, Philippines — In the face of the largest corruption scandal in his administration, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. launched the Philippines’ chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) 2026 on Friday, November 14.
Facing envoys and other officials, Marcos proudly introduced the theme: 'Navigating Our Future, Together’.
“ASEAN strength lies in unity, and together we can chart a future that is peaceful, prosperous and people centered,” Marcos said at the official launch in Intramuros, Manila.
Marcos said that the Philippines will help steer the region in three key areas: peace and security, prosperity corridors, and people empowerment. All with the use of advancing technologies such as AI.
Amid ongoing tensions with China over the West Philippine Sea, Marcos said that the Philippines hoped to strengthen dialogue in regional security.
AI could be used for warning systems and maritime domain awareness, the president said.
“We shall continue to champion peace and stability through dialogue, adherence to international law, and enhanced cooperation on traditional and non-traditional security issues. We believe that through cooperation and understanding,” Marcos said.
The ASEAN will be commemorated in various events and venues across the country, including Manila, Cebu, to Bohol, Boracay, Laoag, Iloilo, Tagaytay, and Clark.
“Together, these venues tell the story of a nation that mirrors ASEAN itself — diverse yet united, traditional yet forward-looking, and increasingly future-ready through innovation and through technology,” Marcos said.
Marcos was all smiles despite an earlier corruption accusation from former lawmaker Zaldy Co. Co said that Marcos instructed him to insert P100 billion into the budget during the bicam in 2024.
ASEAN assignments
Marcos also unveiled the new logo of the country’s chairship of the ASEAN, taking the form of a balangay riding against the waves. The balangay is a traditional Filipino boat. A website for the ASEAN Philippines 2026 will also be launched.
During the event, Foreign Affairs Secretary Tess Lazaro was also announced as the Philippines’ Special Envoy of the Chair on Myanmar.
Myanmar was originally set to host the ASEAN 2026 but deferred its chairship to the Philippines amid ongoing political turmoil in the country.
“We are confident that she shall bring a constructive, principled, and inclusive approach to supporting the people of Myanmar, guided by her mandate and the Five-Point Consensus, as we work together towards peace, stability, and reconciliation,” Marcos said.
Marcos also named Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin as the head of the ASEAN National Organizing Council.