Phl needs P22 B for 2026 Asean summit - Palace

The Philippines needs P22 billion to prepare for its hosting of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit in 2026, Malacañang said yesterday.

- With Pia Lee-Brago

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said the regional event is "a very important part" of the Philippines' international relations and preparing for it is a "gargantuan" task.

"It is a showcase of Philippine politics, Philippine leadership and Philippine social condition. It involves a huge effort... We may require P22 billion to prepare," Bersamin told Palace reporters after the signing of the 2025 budget.

He noted that the government has to pay rent for the summit venues, including the Philippine International Convention Center, which is owned by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.

According to the Executive Secretary, Congress increased the Office of the President's proposed budget for next year by P5.2 billion so the executive branch could begin hosting preparations. President Marcos' office originally requested P10.5 billion in funding for next year.