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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider PH pushes security, economic, social agenda as ASEAN Chair for 2026

PH pushes security, economic, social agenda as ASEAN Chair for 2026

Published Feb 25, 2026 12:31 pm  |  Updated Feb 25, 2026 02:07 pm
(PPA Pool)
(PPA Pool)
The Philippines has begun advancing key regional priorities as Chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) for 2026, steering early high-level engagements focused on security cooperation, economic integration, and social development.
In a statement, Malacañang said the initial series of meetings signals a strong start to the Chairship year and underscores Manila’s commitment to ensuring that ASEAN cooperation delivers tangible benefits to its peoples.

Cebu retreat sets tone

In late January, the Philippines hosted the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Retreat in Cebu, one of the first major meetings under its Chairship.
The retreat outlined the strategic direction of ASEAN, guided by Philippine priorities and deliverables. It featured discussions on regional and global developments, including efforts to conclude negotiations on an effective and substantive Code of Conduct in the South China Sea by 2026.
Senior Economic Officials also convened their first meeting of the year in Bohol, aligning on regional economic priorities and reviewing major initiatives such as the proposed Digital Economy Framework Agreement.

Tourism, integration, human rights talks

During the ASEAN Tourism Forum, member states launched the ASEAN Tourism Strategic Plan 2026–2030, which aims to make tourism across the region more accessible and sustainable.
The plan seeks to boost tourism flows, generate jobs, and promote development that benefits local communities while protecting natural and cultural heritage.
Around 20 ASEAN Technical Working Group meetings were also held this month to undertake preparatory coordination work, with substantive updates expected at senior official and ministerial levels.
Before the month ends, the 42nd Meeting of the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights and the 49th Meeting of the High-Level Task Force on ASEAN Economic Integration are set to tackle issues involving economic security, job creation, and regional stability.
On Feb. 24, editors, policymakers, business leaders, and media representatives gathered for the ASEAN Editors and Opinion Leaders Forum to discuss trade and investment priorities under the Philippines’ 2026 Chairship.

March ministerial meetings

Higher-level engagements are scheduled in March.
From March 3 to 6, the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community Council Meeting, led by the Department of Social Welfare and Development, will be held in Manila to advance the Philippines’ R.I.S.E. priorities: Resilient and Empowered Families, Inclusive Development, Smart Youth and Innovations, and an Environmentally Sustainable and Food Secure Future.
Talks will focus on disaster coordination, social protection systems, opportunities for vulnerable sectors, youth engagement, innovation, sustainability, and food security.
From March 5 to 6, the ASEAN Senior-Level Committee on Financial Integration, led by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, will review progress in financial cooperation, including capital market development, cross-border payments, and financial inclusion.
The 32nd ASEAN Economic Ministers’ Retreat, scheduled for March 11 to 13 and led by the Department of Trade and Industry, will concentrate on deepening economic integration, accelerating green transformation, and strengthening digital economy cooperation.
These initiatives aim to expand market access for Filipino exporters, attract investments that generate jobs, maintain price stability through stronger supply chains, and create opportunities for micro, small, and medium enterprises across the region.
On March 26, the 44th ASEAN Capital Markets Forum Chairs’ Meeting, led by the Securities and Exchange Commission, will be held in Boracay to advance capital market integration and sustainable finance initiatives.
Officials said enhanced capital market cooperation supports infrastructure development, renewable energy investments, and long-term financial stability.
As host and Chair, the Philippines is expected to play a key role in shaping ASEAN’s regional direction, enhancing investment visibility, and translating regional cooperation into concrete gains for Filipinos, while also showcasing the country to the wider ASEAN community.

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