Marcos to push for energy and food security at ASEAN Summit 2026

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Wednesday said he would lead discussions during the 48th ASEAN Summit and Related Meetings on how the region can guarantee the supply of food and energy amid tensions in the Middle East.

As chair of ASEAN in 2026, the Philippines, together with other ASEAN member states, will engage in productive dialogue and exchange views on regional and global issues, Marcos said.

The discussions will highlight three main priorities: energy security, food security, and the safety of ASEAN nationals across the world.

“At this summit, I will lead discussions on how the region can bolster regional preparedness and ensure stable energy supply and accelerate energy diversification to reduce vulnerability to external shocks, including those stemming from the conflict in the Middle East,” he said in a video message.

“I will push to strengthen food security in the region, keeping the free flow of essential goods and building measures to support farmers and MSMEs,” he added.

Marcos also vowed that ASEAN nationals in other countries would “feel the impact of what we do here in the region.”

“Their safety is equally important, recognizing the contribution of overseas ASEAN nationals in our societies and our economies,” he said.

Marcos said the Philippines would also continue to push for peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and cooperation for shared benefit—which are the founding ideals of ASEAN.

“We will continue to stress that as one region, our efforts will truly be effective on the basis of a unified approach and collective vision. Through these actions, we will embrace an ASEAN where its peoples enjoy a secure, peaceful, and stable future,” he said.

Marcos is expected to arrive in Cebu for the ASEAN Summit on Wednesday night. —VBL, GMA News