President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday conducted a final walkthrough of the main venue and media center for the 49th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Pasay City to ensure the country’s readiness to host the regional gathering.
Marcos inspected the ASEAN International Media Center at the World Trade Center Metro Manila as part of the final preparations for the summit, scheduled on Nov. 15 to 17.
He was joined by Presidential Communications Office Acting Secretary Lino Cayetano, Trade Secretary Maria Cristina Roque, and Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay.
Marcos also inspected the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), which will serve as the main venue for the summit and related meetings.
In a press briefing, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said Marcos wanted to ensure that all preparations were completed ahead of the arrival of foreign leaders.
“Kailangan niyang makita kung ano pa iyong kulang dahil dapat ay halos patapos na tayo sa preparasyon, at siguro iyong mga ibang mga maliliit na bagay na makita ng Pangulo na dapat ayusin ay iyon ang kaniyang titignan (He needs to see what else is lacking because preparations should be nearly complete, and he will likely look into any remaining details that need to be addressed),” she said.
Executive Secretary Ralph Recto, chairperson of the ASEAN National Organizing Council, earlier inspected the PICC and Coconut Palace to check the progress of preparations for the regional gathering.
The Philippines is hosting the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits as chair of the regional bloc for 2026.
This year’s regional gathering carries the theme, “Navigating Our Future Together,” which underscores ASEAN unity, resilience, innovation, and inclusive growth amid evolving regional and global challenges.
The country’s chairship is anchored on three strategic priorities: peace and security anchors, prosperity corridors, and people empowerment.
These priorities aim to strengthen regional peace and security through dialogue and cooperation, deepen economic integration through innovation and sustainable development, and empower communities by promoting social inclusion and improving people’s welfare.
The summit will bring together leaders from ASEAN member states, dialogue partners, and other guests to discuss regional cooperation and shared challenges.
The Philippines’ hosting also provides an opportunity to strengthen regional partnerships and highlight the economic opportunities that ASEAN cooperation can bring to Filipinos. (PNA)
