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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider PH holds national launch of ASEAN 2026 Chairship, unveils theme 'Navigating Our Future, Together'

PH holds national launch of ASEAN 2026 Chairship, unveils theme 'Navigating Our Future, Together'

By MBrand
Published Nov 19, 2025 02:59 pm
The Philippines formally launched its Chairship of ASEAN 2026 on Friday evening, November 14, marking the start of a year-long program of regional cooperation focused on peace, prosperity, and people-centered development.
The National Launch featured the unveiling of the official ASEAN Philippines 2026 logo and commemorative stamp, as well as the ASEAN Philippines 2026 website, which will serve as a central platform for information, collaboration, and public engagement.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. highlighted the Chairship’s theme, “Navigating Our Future, Together,” which emphasizes ASEAN’s collective strength, unity, and shared vision of a peaceful, innovative, and inclusive future.
The Philippines’ priorities as ASEAN Chair in 2026 are Peace and Security Anchors, Prosperity Corridors, and People Empowerment, which will guide efforts to strengthen regional security, promote economic integration, and support human development.
A cross-cutting focus of the Chairship is the responsible, people-centered use of artificial intelligence (AI), whereas: in the security sector, AI is expected to enhance early warning systems, maritime domain awareness, and humanitarian assistance and disaster response; economically, AI aims to support digital trade, innovation, and competitiveness for micro, small, and medium enterprises; and in the socio-cultural sphere, AI will be applied in healthcare, education, and initiatives for youth and older populations.
ASEAN meetings and cultural events throughout 2026 will be hosted across Philippine cities, including Manila, Cebu, Bohol, Boracay, Laoag, Iloilo, Tagaytay, and Clark, reflecting both national diversity and regional engagement.
The Philippines will also lead ASEAN in commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation (TAC), reinforcing its commitment to peace, stability, and the principles underpinning regional cooperation.
“Let us build together an ASEAN that is unified in its diversity, a steadfast body that stands close forever to its principles, and bold in its embrace of innovation — where technology serves humanity, [and] where AI helps secure peace, prosperity, and people empowerment,” President Marcos said.

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