Marcos off to Russia for ASEAN-Russia Summit on June 17-18
At A Glance
- President Marcos will travel to Russia on June 17-18 to attend the ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit.
- As ASEAN Chair, the Philippines will lead the review of ASEAN's cooperation and relations with Russia.
- The Department of Energy is also exploring possible discussions on energy transition and fuel diversification.
President Marcos will travel to Russia next week to lead the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)’s review of its relations with Moscow during a summit marking the 35th anniversary of ASEAN-Russia ties.
In a press briefing, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Claire Castro said the President will be in Kazan, Russia, from June 17 to 18 to attend the ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit.
She added that the Philippines will play a key role in the discussions as the current chair of ASEAN.
“Ang Russia ay isang ASEAN dialogue partner at bilang ASEAN Chair, ang Pilipinas, pangungunahan natin ang pagsusuri sa naging takbo ng ating kooperasyon at relasyon sa Russia (Russia is an ASEAN dialogue partner and as ASEAN Chair, the Philippines will lead the review of the progress of our cooperation and relations with Russia),” she said on Thursday, June 11.
“Kasama na rin dito ang pagtatalakay sa mga susunod na hakbang upang higit pang mapalalim at mapalawak ang ugnayan ng Pilipinas at Russia at ng ASEAN (This will also include discussions on the next steps to further deepen and expand relations between the Philippines and Russia and between ASEAN and Russia),” she added.
Asked why the Philippines is seeking to expand engagement with Russia despite sanctions imposed by some countries over the war in Ukraine, Castro emphasized that the trip is primarily linked to Manila's responsibilities as ASEAN Chair.
Energy cooperation eyed
The Palace also disclosed that the Department of Energy (DOE) is exploring possible areas of cooperation with Russia in the energy sector.
Castro said Energy Secretary Sharon Garin has expressed interest in discussing potential opportunities related to energy transition and fuel diversification.
“According to her, there are no details yet, but she wants to explore possible options on energy transition and fuel diversification,” she said.
She added that Garin plans to discuss the matter with the Russian ambassador to the Philippines.
Asked whether the government is studying the feasibility of purchasing Russian oil, Castro said the matter would form part of the discussions being explored by the Energy Department.
DFA to release details
The Palace said more details regarding the President's participation in the summit, including possible bilateral meetings, will be announced by the Department of Foreign Affairs.
When asked whether Marcos would hold separate talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Castro said the DFA would provide details during its briefing on Monday.
Russia has been an ASEAN dialogue partner since 1996, with cooperation spanning political-security, economic, and socio-cultural areas.
The Philippines is serving as ASEAN Chair in 2026 under the theme of strengthening regional cooperation, connectivity, and resilience.