President Marcos has departed Manila to participate in the 44th and 45th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summits in Lao People’s Democratic Republic (PDR) where he is expected to advance the country's stand resolving regional disputes.
In his departure speech on Tuesday afternoon, Oct. 8, Marcos said the annual ASEAN summits are essential for the Philippines to discuss the issues confronting ASEAN countries on geopolitical matters and functional cooperation.
"As we continue to grapple with sharpening regional tensions, including the recent dangerous incidents in the West Philippine Sea, I intend to champion our advocacies in promoting an open, inclusive, and rules-based international order, and for the peaceful resolution of any disputes in accordance with international law," Marcos said.
The President said he will be participating in meetings with ASEAN’s external partners to advance cooperation in areas such as food and energy security, trade and investment, supply chain resilience, MSMEs, and addressing the impacts of climate change, and more.
During the summits, he will be joining discussions on international issues that impact beyond the region, including the West Philippine Sea, the situation in Myanmar, conflict in Ukraine, in the Middle East as well, among other important regional and international issues.
"This administration will continue to ensure that our constructive and deepening engagements with ASEAN, our Dialogue Partners, and stakeholders serve our national interest and the well-being of the Filipino people," he said.
Marcos' attendance at the annual summits was through the invitation of the Prime Minister of Lao PDR Sonexay Siphandone.
He will be in Laos until Oct. 11.
The Chief Executive was accompanied by First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos.
Marcos has designated an executive committee to oversee the government while he is away.
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