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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Marcos: PH ready to lead ASEAN with practical, inclusive, measurable initiatives

Marcos: PH ready to lead ASEAN with practical, inclusive, measurable initiatives

Published Oct 26, 2025 04:56 pm
President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. (RTVM)
President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. (RTVM)
President Marcos declared the Philippines ready to take the helm of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 2026, promising a leadership anchored on “practical, inclusive, and measurable initiatives” that will directly benefit the region’s people.
Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Claire Castro said the President made the statement during his intervention at the ASEAN Plenary Session at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Center, where leaders gathered for the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits.
“Nagpahayag ng kahandaan si Pangulong Marcos para sa ASEAN 2026 kung saan ang Pilipinas ang magsisilbing host country (President Marcos expressed the Philippines’ readiness for ASEAN 2026, where the country will serve as host),” she said in a briefing on the sidelines of the summit on Sunday, Oct. 26.
“Binigyang-diin ni Pangulong Marcos Jr. na nakatuon sa practical, inclusive, at measurable initiatives ang pag-host ng Pilipinas sa ASEAN sa susunod na taon (President Marcos stressed that the Philippines’ ASEAN hosting next year will focus on practical, inclusive, and measurable initiatives),” she added.
Before departing for Kuala Lumpur on Saturday, Marcos unveiled a series of domestic reforms aimed at curbing corruption, improving fiscal fairness, and easing the cost of living — measures he said are necessary to strengthen the Philippines’ credibility as it prepares to assume the ASEAN chairmanship next year.
Among the measures he listed were his order to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to slash construction material costs by as much as 50 percent following an internal review that found several items were overpriced by the same margin.
He added that the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) will simplify and reduce creditable withholding tax rates to relieve taxpayers from excessive compliance requirements “without revenues to be forgone.”
The President said he has also approved proposals to raise the ceiling for tax-exempt de minimis benefits, including the uniform and clothing allowance for employees.
In addition, Marcos said his administration will continue to enforce the maximum suggested retail price for imported rice while ensuring access to the 20-peso rice program.

Focus on unity, stability, and ASEAN Vision 2045

In his intervention during the 47th ASEAN Plenary Session, President Marcos underscored ASEAN’s vital role in promoting regional stability, cooperation, and economic progress. He also reiterated the Philippines’ commitment to achieving the ASEAN Vision 2045, which aims to build a resilient, inclusive, and dynamic regional community.
The President extended his appreciation to Malaysia for its warm hospitality during the summit and officially welcomed Timor-Leste as ASEAN’s newest member state.

Maritime cooperation and international law

President Marcos likewise reaffirmed the Philippines’ support for ASEAN Centrality and highlighted the importance of maintaining peace, stability, and collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region.
He also renewed the country’s commitment to international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the Agreement on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ Agreement).

Trade and sustainable development

On the economic front, the President cited the signing of the Second Protocol to Amend the ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement (ATIGA) and the ASEAN-China Free Trade Area 3.0 Upgrade, saying these initiatives reaffirm the Philippines’ support for open markets, infrastructure development, and sustained regional economic growth.
Marcos likewise stressed the importance of inclusive and sustainable development through strengthened social protection systems, disaster resilience, and environmental cooperation.

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President Marcos Bongbong Marcos ASEAN Claire Castro
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