Marcos departs for ASEAN Summits in Laos to discuss South China Sea, security

President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. departed Manila on Tuesday for Vientiane, Laos, to attend the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits.

During his visit, Marcos emphasized advancing Philippine national interests, including maintaining peace and security in the region, particularly addressing China's incursions in the South China Sea.

On Wednesday, Marcos stated that leaders of ASEAN have begun discussing the South China Sea issue during the opening day of the summit, adhering to the principle of upholding international law and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

The President assured Filipinos based in Laos of their contributions to the economy and international reputation of the Philippines, thanking them for being 'superlative ambassadors'.

Marcos will push for the Philippines' interests during bilateral meetings with leaders from Canada, Japan, New Zealand, and Vietnam, focusing on food and energy security, trade, investment, supply chain resilience, and addressing climate change impacts.

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin 'Boying' Remulla, and Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado Estrella will serve as government caretakers during Marcos's absence in Laos.