Marcos Pledges To Advance Energy Diversification, Food Security At Asean Summit

From Niam Seet Wei & Linda Khoo

CEBU (Philippines), May 6 (Bernama) -- Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. vowed to accelerate energy diversification and bolster regional preparedness at the ASEAN Summit, aiming to reduce the region’s vulnerability to external shocks including the conflict in West Asia.

As ASEAN Chair this year, he said the Philippines would also push to strengthen food security in the region, keeping the free flow of essential goods and building measures to support farmers and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

“I will also ensure that ASEAN nationals across the world feel the impact of what we do here in the region,” he said in video message for the 48th ASEAN Summit and Related Meetings which will run from May 6 to 8 here.

He added that the summit would underscore energy security, food security, and the safety of ASEAN nationals worldwide.

In his message, Marcos said the bloc welcomed Timor-Leste as a full-fledged member of ASEAN this year, a reflection of the continued relevance of regional cooperation and our shared commitment to the ideals of multilateralism.

“The Philippines, together with other ASEAN Member States, will engage in productive dialogue and exchange views on regional and global issues,” he said.

Marcos said the Philippines will continue to champion the founding ideals of ASEAN – peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and cooperation for shared benefit.

“We will continue to stress that as one region, our efforts will truly be effective on the basis of a unified approach and collective vision. Through these actions, we will embrace an ASEAN where its peoples enjoy a secure, peaceful, and stable future,” he said.

The Philippines took over the ASEAN Chairmanship from Malaysia on Jan 1, 2026, with the theme “Navigating Our Future, Together,” steering ASEAN’s priorities through three pillars: Peace and Security Anchors, Prosperity Corridors, and People Empowerment.

-- BERNAMA