From KL to Manila: Charting ASEAN's next course

After the conclusion of the recent ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, the Philippines finds itself at the threshold of a new and consequential moment in regional diplomacy. The country will assume the chairship and host key ASEAN meetings in 2026, a responsibility that confers privilege and significance.

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Under Malaysia's stewardship, the ASEAN Summit adopted the "Inclusivity and Sustainability" theme, signaling a renewed commitment by the members to shape a common future of shared growth and cooperation. For the Philippines, the upcoming chairship presents an opportunity to translate ambition into action, especially in the areas of economic integration, maritime security, and regional identity. As hosts, we must set a vision and steer the agenda so that ASEAN's rhetoric converts into tangible outcomes for our citizens.

One such milestone from the Kuala Lumpur meeting was the formal admission of Timor Leste (East Timor) as ASEAN's 11th member. The Philippines has consistently backed Timor-Leste's membership bid, even dating back to the time of President Benigno S. Aquino III, reflecting our conviction that the "family of ASEAN" must remain open to new voices and inclusive of the region's budding democracies.