Marcos sees stronger maritime cooperation under ASEAN declaration

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. sees stronger maritime cooperation among Southeast Asian countries following the adoption of the ASEAN Leaders’ Declaration on Maritime Coordination during the 48th ASEAN Summit in Cebu last month.

“We emphasize the importance of strengthening cooperation, particularly in the maritime sphere, with the adoption of the ASEAN Maritime Leaders’ Declaration at the [48th ASEAN] Summit,” Marcos said during his speech at the traditional Vin d’Honneur in Malacañang on Independence Day, June 12.

Marcos said the declaration affirms ASEAN’s collective commitment to advancing maritime cooperation and recognizes the multidimensional nature of maritime issues.

“Amid profound global uncertainties and shifting geopolitical winds, our ASEAN community responded with unity, wisdom, and cooperation amidst this increasingly fractured geostrategic environment,” Marcos said.

According to Marcos, discussions at the summit focused on three core priorities: ensuring regional energy security and resilience, strengthening food security, and safeguarding the welfare of ASEAN nationals.

Last year, the rotating ASEAN chairmanship was handed over to the Philippines.

UN Security Council

In his speech, the President expressed gratitude for the support extended to the Philippines’ bid for a seat on the United Nations Security Council.

“We value your support, cooperation, and contribution to advancing our mutually beneficial relations with your respective countries and working with us to chart the path forward,” Marcos said.

The Philippines failed to secure the sole Asia-Pacific seat on the UN Security Council for the 2027–2028 term, losing the bid to Kyrgyzstan.

Nevertheless, Marcos said that, as a founding member of the United Nations, the Philippines will continue working with “all nations in pursuing peace, stability, sustainable development, and a rules-based international order.”

Marcos concluded his speech by raising a toast to the health and longevity of the members of the diplomatic corps, to the peace, resilience, and prosperity of nations, and to the enduring friendship between the Philippines and the global community.

The traditional Vin d'Honneur, French for “wine of honor,” is observed twice a year in the Philippines—in celebration of the New Year and Philippine Independence Day. —VBL, GMA News