Marcos, Anwar discuss ASEAN challenges, Myanmar crisis, US tariffs

President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim discussed economic and security challenges facing ASEAN during a phone call on Friday.

The leaders exchanged views on regional concerns ahead of the 46th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur from May 26-27, focusing on issues such as Myanmar's crisis and global tariff negotiations.

Marcos expressed his hope to continue these discussions with other ASEAN leaders during the summit, while Anwar extended well wishes for the Philippines' midterm elections on May 12.

Anwar emphasized Malaysia's call for a ceasefire extension in Myanmar to ensure unhampered humanitarian access, stating that assistance should be channeled without discrimination or restriction.

The two leaders also discussed US tariff actions and their implications for regional economies, highlighting the need for further discussion.

Malaysia currently holds the ASEAN chairmanship, with the Philippines set to assume leadership in 2026 when Myanmar was originally scheduled to do so.