President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said on Wednesday he and his fellow leaders in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) will prioritize energy security, food security, and the safety of Southeast Asian nationals across the world when they meet for the 48th ASEAN Summit in Cebu on Friday.

“The Philippines, together with other ASEAN member states, will engage in productive dialogue and exchange views on regional and global issues, mindful of the problems confronting ASEAN peoples today,” President Marcos said in a video message for the summit.

“At this summit, I will lead discussions on how the region can bolster regional preparedness and ensure stable energy supply and accelerate energy diversification to reduce vulnerability to external shocks, including those stemming from the conflict in the Middle East.”

As the summit chair, the President said he would push to strengthen regional food security, keeping the free flow of essential goods, and building measures to support farmers and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

The President also vowed to ensure that ASEAN nationals across the world feel the impact of current regional developments as he stressed the importance of their safety.

At the same time, President Marcos said the Philippines would continue championing the founding ideals of ASEAN, peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and cooperation for shared benefit.

“We will continue to stress that as one region, our efforts will truly be effective on the basis of a unified approach and collective vision,” said the President.

“Through these actions, we will embrace an ASEAN where its peoples enjoy a secure, peaceful, and stable future.” Presidential News Desk