The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business
The Philippines has begun the final countdown to its hosting of Southeast Asia’s biggest diplomatic gathering, with regional leaders set to converge in Manila this month for talks aimed at advancing peace, economic growth and people-centered development.
The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) officially launched the countdown to the 49th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and Related Summits on Oct. 28, illuminating the iconic SM Mall of Asia globe in Pasay City with the event’s logo.
The high-level meetings are scheduled for Nov. 15 to 18, bringing the Philippines closer to the culmination of its year as ASEAN chair.
Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Maria Theresa Dizon-De Vega led the ceremony alongside PCO Assistant Secretary Ronadale Zapata, who represented PCO Secretary Lino Cayetano, and diplomats from ASEAN member states.
With 18 days remaining before the summit at the time of the launch, Dizon-De Vega said the country was committed to completing its chairship successfully and welcoming regional leaders and international partners.
The summit’s agenda centers on three priorities identified by the Philippine chairship: peace and security, regional prosperity, and people empowerment. Dizon-De Vega said the country had already achieved substantial results through high-level ASEAN meetings held throughout the year, with remaining commitments to be addressed at the November gathering.
The countdown launch also kicked off a digital promotional campaign in SM Supermalls cinemas nationwide, running through Nov. 18, while the ASEAN Corner was reintroduced to showcase books and cultural collections reflecting the shared heritage of the bloc’s 11 member states.
The ceremony featured a performance of the ASEAN 2026 theme song, “One Vision, One Ocean,” underscoring the Philippines’ effort to highlight regional cooperation not only through diplomacy but also through cultural ties.
The summit will serve as a key milestone in the Philippines’ 2026 chairship under the theme “Navigating Our Future, Together,” as member states seek to strengthen regional collaboration and build a resilient, innovative, and people-centered ASEAN community.