KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia—President Marcos has encouraged fellow leaders of Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to engage in broader dialogue and deeper partnership in terms of maritime and economy.

Marcos made the call during his intervention at the 47th ASEAN Summit Plenary here on Sunday, Oct. 26, stressing that it is imperative for the now 11-member regional bloc to strive for stronger cooperation for regional stability and progress.

“ASEAN, as we know today, has evolved to become a pivotal player in global affairs,” Marcos said. “It is incumbent upon us to seize this opportunity and lead our region towards strengthened stability and progress, alongside our partners.”

The President stressed that ASEAN’s approach must focus on fostering cooperation rather than competition.

“Under these commitments, the Philippines urges our partners to enhance our engagements where mutual benefits will prosper. Let us pursue broader dialogue and deeper cooperation in the maritime sphere and the economic domain,” he stressed.

Marcos noted that the commitments are not mere declarations of resolve but must be translated into consistent and concrete action from all parties concerned.

“Our continued pursuit of these measures is not just a protest nor an empty call. It is a solemn obligation to our people, to their livelihoods and communities, and to the values we have pledged to uphold,” Marcos said.

He reiterated that the Philippines will continue to pursue mutually beneficial dialogue and cooperation between ASEAN and its external partners, in line with international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

The President underscored that the Philippines is proud to be part of the growing family of States Parties to the UNCLOS on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ Agreement), describing the agreement as a milestone in addressing biodiversity loss and the degradation of ocean ecosystems.

“We commend the initiatives that ensure a peaceful, secure, and just environment in the region,” Marcos said.

Marcos further reaffirmed the Philippines’ dedication to advancing regional cooperation in health, education, environment, labor, youth, and human rights.

He also highlighted the importance of the upcoming Post-2025 ASEAN Strategic Plan on Environment (ASPEN) as a unified framework to address the triple planetary threats of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution.