PH to uphold rules-based advocacies at ASEAN Summit

President Marcos has vowed to uphold the Philippines' commitment to a rules-based international order and the peaceful resolution of disputes in the region as he left for Kuala Lumpur for the 47th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and Related Summits.

- By ARGYLL CYRUS GEDUCOS and RAYMUND ANTONIO

In his departure statement on Saturday, Oct. 25, Marcos said he will join fellow ASEAN leaders in reaffirming the country’s commitment to ASEAN centrality amid pressing regional and global challenges, including developments in the South China Sea, the situation in Myanmar, threats to regional peace and maritime security, the far-reaching impacts of climate change, economic volatility, and transnational crime.

"I will continue to champion our advocacies in promoting an open, inclusive, and rules-based international order and for the peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law," he said.

The summit, hosted by Malaysian Prime Minister Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim, carries the theme "Inclusivity and Sustainability", reflecting ASEAN'S shared pursuit of unity, resilience, and people-centered development.

"The Philippines fully supports Malaysia's chairship this year and its vision of an ASEAN that promotes meaningful, inclusive, and sustainable development," the President said.

He added that these discussions are essential to maintaining regional stability and advancing shared prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.