Philippines Supports Integrated ASEAN Steps to Address Energy Resilience

Cebu (ANTARA) - Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday called for practical collective steps to strengthen regional energy resilience as Southeast Asian countries face economic pressures from the conflict in the Middle East.

In the opening of the Plenary Session of the 48th ASEAN Summit in Cebu, Philippines, Marcos said ASEAN must strengthen coordination and preparedness amid ongoing volatility in the global energy market.

“In the face of increasing volatility, ASEAN must strengthen coordination and preparedness, and take practical collective steps to maintain a stable energy supply,” Marcos said.

He noted that rising tensions involving Iran, Israel, and the United States have disrupted energy flows and transportation routes, contributing to supply uncertainties and rising living costs across the region.

Marcos also highlighted the role of innovation and artificial intelligence in enhancing energy forecasting, electricity grid management, and system flexibility.

The Philippines previously readjusted the organisation of ASEAN through cost-saving measures and scaling down activities after declaring a national energy emergency amid concerns over global fuel supplies.

In addition to energy resilience, Marcos mentioned food stability and the protection of ASEAN citizens abroad as urgent priorities in the region.

The ASEAN Summit in Cebu marks the first year of implementing the ASEAN Community 2045 vision under the theme of the Philippines’ chairmanship, “Navigating Our Future Together.”