Marcos calls for robust ASEAN cooperation

President Marcos has encouraged fellow leaders of Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to engage in broader dialogue and deeper maritime and economic partnership

- BETHEENA UNITE

Marcos made the call during his intervention at the 47th ASEAN Summit Plenary here on Sunday, Oct. 26, stressing that it is imperative for the now 11-member regional bloc to strive for stronger cooperation for regional stability and progress.

“ASEAN, as we know today, has evolved to become a pivotal player in global affairs,” Marcos said. “It is incumbent upon us to seize this opportunity and lead our region toward strengthened stability and progress, alongside our partners.”

The President stressed that ASEAN's approach must focus on fostering cooperation rather than competition.

“Under these commitments, the Philippines urges our partners to enhance our engagements where mutual benefits will prosper. Let us pursue broader dialogue and deeper cooperation in the maritime sphere and the economic domain,” he stressed.

Marcos noted that the commitments are not mere declarations of resolve but must be translated into consistent and concrete action from all parties concerned.

“Our continued pursuit of these measures is not just a protest nor an empty call. It is a solemn obligation to our people, to their livelihoods and communities, and to the values we have pledged to uphold,” Marcos said.

He reiterated that the Philippines will continue to pursue mutually beneficial dialogue and cooperation between ASEAN and its external partners, in line with international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UN-CLOS).

The President underscored that the Philippines is proud to be part of the growing family of States Parties to the UNCLOS on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ Agreement), describing the agreement as a milestone in addressing biodiversity loss and the degradation of ocean ecosystems.