Marcos to push Asean preparedness vs external shocks

CEBU, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday vowed to lead discussions on how Southeast Asian nations can improve regional preparedness and build defenses from external shocks, particularly from the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, during the ongoing 48th Asean Summit and Related Meetings in Cebu.

The Leader’s Summit is set on Friday, when leaders of Asean member states leaders will discuss economic, political, security, and other issues affecting the region.

READ: Marcos: Asean summit in May to focus on oil, food, migrants

“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,” he said in a video statement played at the International Media Center in Lapu-Lapu City.

Marcos then vowed to ensure that all Southeast Asians will feel the impact of the high-level discourse no matter where they are in the world.

“Their safety is equally important, recognizing the contribution of overseas Asean nationals in our societies and our economies,” he said.

The president further added he will push for stronger food security to ensure the free flow of essential goods and build measures to support farmers and micro, small, and medium Enterprises.

“As chair, the Philippines will continue to champion the founding ideals of Asean — peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and cooperation for shared benefit,” he said.

“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. Through these actions, we will embrace an Asean where its peoples enjoy a secure, peaceful, and stable future,” he added.

In a media interview in Cavite in March, the president announced that this month’s Asean Summit will focus only on “bare-bones” topics: oil, food prices, and migrant workers.

This development came after all Asean member states agreed to focus on these issues, as they continue to feel the brunt of rising fuel prices triggered by the conflict in the Middle East. /das