Philippine Foreign Secretary Urges ASEAN Unity

Manila – Philippine Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo urged member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to deepen cooperation as the bloc prepares for its upcoming summit in Jakarta. Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Manalo emphasized that collective action is essential to address shared challenges, including maritime security in the South China Sea, post‑pandemic economic recovery, climate‑change mitigation, and the implementation of the ASEAN Charter’s commitments to regional integration.

Manalo highlighted recent diplomatic engagements with ASEAN partners, noting that coordinated policies on trade facilitation, health preparedness, and disaster response can enhance the region’s resilience. He also called for a unified stance in dialogues with external powers, stressing that ASEAN’s credibility hinges on its ability to present cohesive positions on strategic issues. The foreign secretary’s remarks come as member states finalize agendas for the 2026 ASEAN Leaders’ Meeting, where consensus on a roadmap for sustainable development and security cooperation is expected.

The call for greater unity underscores Manila’s view that ASEAN’s strength lies in its solidarity, and it signals a push for concrete joint initiatives ahead of the summit. Observers anticipate that the forthcoming discussions will translate the Secretary’s appeal into actionable agreements, reinforcing the bloc’s role as a cohesive regional actor.