PRESIDENT Marcos has called for stronger unity among Southeast Asian nations as global conflicts and emerging disruptions threaten regional stability.
‘Conflicts beyond our shores, including the situation in the Middle East, remind us that crises affect stability, economies, and communities far beyond where they begin,’ said Marcos, marking the 59th Asean Day on Saturday.
He stressed that even after conflicts subside, their impact lingers across societies and economies, underscoring the need for collective action among Asean member states.
‘On this 59th Asean Day, we celebrate not only the founding of our association, we celebrate a promise that has endured for nearly six decades, that in our shared region, dialogue must prevail over division, cooperation over conflict, and solidarity over uncertainty,’ he said.
The President highlighted that the group’s founding principle of unity remains crucial as the region faces challenges such as climate change, economic uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, and the rapid rise of artificial intelligence.
‘Asean was built on a simple but powerful truth. Our peoples are safer, stronger, and more prosperous when our nations face the future together,’ Marcos said.
He noted that Asean has consistently upheld this vision by preserving peace and strengthening economic ties.
‘Today, we can say with pride that Asean has honored that promise. Together, we have helped preserve peace in our region. We have deepened economic cooperation, expanded opportunities, and strengthened partnerships,’ he said.
As chairman of the Asean, Marcos said the Philippines has guided the region with ‘clarity, resolve, and purpose’ under the theme ‘Navigating Our Future Together.’
‘At the 48th Asean Summit in Cebu, and in the preparatory work leading up to it, Asean acted swiftly, and with resolve. We focused our collective response on three urgent priorities. Energy security, food security, and the safety of Asean nationals amid the situation in the Middle East,’ he said.
‘These priorities reflect Asean’s commitment to cooperation that protects lives, improves livelihoods, and upholds peace, prosperity, and people empowerment,’ he added.
Marcos emphasized the importance of Asean centrality in maintaining dialogue and stability in the region.
‘This is why Asean centrality matters. It is how we chart our present and our future. Through Asean-led mechanisms, we provide vital spaces for dialogue, confidence building, and peaceful engagement,’ he said.
He also pointed to Asean’s growing global significance, noting its economic strength and demographic advantage.
‘Home to nearly 700 million people and already the world’s fifth largest economy, Asean remains a compelling destination for trade, investment, innovation, and long-term partnership,’ Marcos said.
The President cited key milestones, including the first year of implementing the Asean Community Vision 2045 and the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation.
‘We mark the first year of implementation of the Asean Community Vision 2045, our long-term guide toward a more resilient, innovative, dynamic, and people-centered Asean,’ he said.
‘We also celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia, a cornerstone of peace, regional stability, trust, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence in our region and beyond,’ he added.
Marcos also welcomed Timor-Leste’s participation as Asean’s 11th member state, calling it a ‘historic step’ in strengthening regional cooperation.
‘This year, we also proudly welcome Timor-Leste’s full and active participation as Asean’s 11th member state. Today, this historic step strengthens our shared journey and reaffirms our collective commitment to Asean community building,’ he said.
Looking ahead, Marcos expressed confidence in Asean’s continued unity and progress.
‘As we look ahead to the 49th Asean Summit and related summits, and to the transition to Singapore as the next chair, we do so with full confidence in Asean’s collective will, in the strength of our valued partnerships, and in our shared commitment to sustained progress and continuity,’ he said.
He urged member states to renew their commitment to regional cooperation.
‘On this Asean Day, let us honor how far we have come. More importantly, let us renew our responsibility for what comes next. Let us continue to navigate our future together,’ Marcos said.