BBM, Anwar Discuss ASEAN Economic, Security Issues

President Marcos received a call on Friday from Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who engaged him in discussions about the Trump administration's tariff policy and the ceasefire in Myanmar.

- By ALEXIS ROMERO

In a Facebook post, Marcos said he and Anwar discussed economic and security challenges facing the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Their conversation came weeks before Kuala Lumpur's hosting of the ASEAN summit.

"I expect these discussions to continue with our fellow leaders during the summit in Kuala Lumpur this month," the President said.

Also on Facebook, Anwar said he had called Marcos to discuss some regional and global developments.

According to him, the US decision to delay the implementation of tariffs for 90 days has provided some relief, allowing for further discussions on related matters. He cited Malaysia's position of strength with regard to certain products.

"On the issue of tariffs, as the ASEAN chair, I conveyed that Malaysia can leverage its position to demonstrate its significance to the United States in global tariff negotiations," Anwar said.