The establishment of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Maritime Centre in the Philippines will promote "rules-based international order" and enhance stability in the region, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said on Monday.

"The Armed Forces of the Philippines warmly welcomes ASEAN’s landmark adoption of agreements on maritime security and the establishment of the ASEAN Maritime Center in the Philippines," AFP spokesman for the West Philippine Sea Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad said.

"This move aligns with the Philippine national policy of fostering a rules-based international order and enhancing regional stability," he added.

In his post-summit press briefing in Cebu, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced that first among the documents adopted by the ASEAN Leaders last Friday is the ASEAN Leaders’ Declaration on Maritime Cooperation which "includes the proposal for the establishment of an ASEAN Maritime Centre in the Philippines".

"The Center will serve as a vital hub for coordinating efforts against shared challenges, ensuring freedom of navigation and protecting our marine environment," said Trinidad.

"By integrating climate action, disaster response, and digital innovation, we strengthen our collective resilience," he said.

"The AFP remains committed to work with our ASEAN counterparts to ensure a secure, peaceful, and prosperous West Philippine Sea," the spokesman added. Robina Asido/PHS