Marcos returns from ASEAN Summit, discusses regional issues

President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. returned to Manila on Wednesday after participating in the 46th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

During his engagements, Marcos emphasized the Philippines' commitment to regional cooperation and economic resilience, discussing significant international issues such as tensions in the South China Sea and unilateral tariff measures.

The President reiterated that the Philippines will defend its sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea according to international law and highlighted the need for freedom of navigation in the South China Sea and Arabian Sea.

Marcos also held bilateral talks with leaders from Lao PDR, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Kuwait, focusing on strengthening defense, maritime cooperation, trade, and education ties.

The President welcomed the establishment of the ASEAN Geoeconomics Task Force and discussed initiatives in education, green jobs, and protection of migrant workers' rights.

While President Marcos was away, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla, and Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado Estrella III acted as caretakers in his absence.