Leaders from across Southeast Asia have gathered in Cebu for the 48th ASEAN Leaders’ Summit hosted by Ferdinand Marcos Jr..
The summit has brought together major regional figures including Prabowo Subianto, Anwar Ibrahim, and Lawrence Wong amid growing economic and security concerns across the region.
In his opening remarks, Marcos called for stronger ASEAN unity and deeper regional cooperation as Southeast Asia faces mounting challenges.
Leaders are discussing inflation pressures, supply chain disruptions, energy and food security concerns, and rising tensions in the South China Sea.
The summit is also focusing on the global economic impact of ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, particularly rising fuel prices and their effect on regional economies.
ASEAN officials are expected to push for stronger trade coordination and economic resilience as uncertainty continues in international markets.
Another major issue under discussion is the long-delayed South China Sea Code of Conduct, aimed at reducing tensions and preventing conflict in disputed waters.
The talks come amid continuing maritime disputes between the Philippines and China.
As the summit continues, leaders are under pressure to strengthen regional stability and present a united response to growing geopolitical challenges.
