The Philippines has affirmed its commitment to building upon Malaysia’s current leadership of ASEAN as it prepares to assume the regional bloc’s chairmanship in 2026, with a focus on enhancing regional economic integration and fostering a unified stance on global issues.
Philippine Ambassador to Malaysia Maria Angela A. Ponce underscored the significance of aligning closely with Malaysia to ensure continuity and sustained momentum in ASEAN initiatives. Speaking to Bernama at the recent celebration of the 127th Anniversary of the Philippines’ Independence, she praised Malaysia’s robust chairmanship and emphasised the importance of collaborative efforts in carrying forward its initiatives.
“Malaysia’s chairmanship is very strong, and it is important to work closely with it to carry forward the initiatives it has put in place so that we are able to advance as we prepare for our own chairmanship,” said Ponce.
She noted that the Philippines is currently in the process of developing a theme and strategic direction for its upcoming term, which will shape the focus of its engagements and initiatives during its leadership in 2026.
“We are not working in a vacuum. What we want to do is build on the accomplishments and initiatives that Malaysia has undertaken during its chairmanship. If you start without that context and continuity, it is difficult to achieve much within just one year,” she said.
Malaysia, which holds the ASEAN chairmanship in 2025 under the theme Inclusivity and Sustainability, has prioritised regional peace, security, stability and prosperity within a cohesive and sustainable framework. The Philippines intends to align its preparations with these goals to maintain progress and strengthen regional cooperation.
Looking ahead, Ponce also confirmed the Philippines’ intent to participate actively in the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and Post-Ministerial Conference scheduled for the first two weeks of July.
“These meetings are very important because they involve not only ASEAN member states but also its dialogue partners. We are looking forward to contributing actively to the discussions,” she added.
Ponce further highlighted that the Philippines’ engagement in these upcoming meetings is guided by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr’s broader regional vision, which consistently advocates for a united ASEAN committed to peace and regional stability.
-Bernama
