Philippines Calls for Strengthening Maritime Cooperation at ASEAN Summit Opening

Jakarta (ANTARA) - As the current ASEAN chair, the Philippines has called on ASEAN countries to increase solidarity and cooperation in the maritime sector, especially amid geopolitical crises affecting the region.

This was conveyed by Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. during the opening of the 48th ASEAN Summit on Friday, when the conflict in the Middle East between the United States-Israel and Iran has had a significant impact on maritime shipping.

“These dynamics have disrupted sea shipping movements and air transport, increased risks to commercial vessels and non-combatant ships, and affected supplies of energy and essential commodities,” said Marcos, as broadcast via ASEAN 2026 YouTube, monitored in Jakarta.

He stated that these tensions have resulted in rising living costs and disruptions to goods supplies, putting economic pressure on and threatening the livelihoods of Southeast Asian communities, both at home and in the Middle East.

Nevertheless, these dynamics also serve as a reminder of the increasing importance of maintaining ASEAN centrality and solidarity in facing shared challenges through collective action.

Marcos emphasised the importance of ASEAN countries enhancing their cooperation in the maritime sector. The Philippines will ensure that these commitments translate into concrete actions in the region during its ASEAN chairmanship this year, he said.

“Therefore, we recognise the importance of maritime cooperation and look forward to the adoption of the ASEAN Leaders’ Declaration on Maritime Cooperation,” said Marcos.

He stated that the declaration will include the Philippines’ proposal for the establishment of an ASEAN Maritime Centre.

This institution, said the Philippine President, will serve as an important platform for maritime cooperation in coordination with other relevant ASEAN bodies through ASEAN-led mechanisms.

The 48th ASEAN Summit and related meetings were officially opened on Friday afternoon by President Marcos in Cebu, Philippines.

Under the Philippines’ ASEAN chairmanship with the theme “Navigating Our Future, Together,” this summit will focus on discussions regarding a joint response to the situation in the Middle East and its potential impacts on the region.

Prior to the ASEAN Summit, a series of ministerial-level meetings were held on Thursday, including the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting (AMM) and the 31st Meeting of the ASEAN Political-Security Community Council (APSC).