Marcos eyes adoption of ASEAN leaders' maritime cooperation declaration

LAPU-LAPU CITY, CEBU — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Friday expressed optimism regarding the adoption of a declaration on maritime cooperation among Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) leaders.

Marcos said this during the 48th ASEAN Summit Plenary, where the region’s most pressing priorities are expected to be discussed by the ASEAN leaders, who flew to Cebu for the summit.

“We recognize the importance of maritime cooperation and look forward to the adoption of the ASEAN Leaders’ Declaration on Maritime Cooperation," the Philippine President said.

"[This] includes the Philippines’ proposal to establish an ASEAN Maritime Center, which will serve as an important platform for maritime cooperation in coordination with relevant ASEAN and ASEAN-led mechanisms,” he added.

Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro earlier underscored the importance of the ASEAN Leaders' Declaration on Maritime Cooperation, recognizing the multidimensional nature of maritime issues and underscoring the importance of enhancing coordination among ASEAN member-states.

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She said a vital aspect of the cooperation is the proposed establishment of the ASEAN Maritime Center in the Philippines.

The Philippines is the chair of ASEAN for 2026. —VAL, GMA News