Prabowo Attends Retreat Session of the 48th ASEAN Summit
President Prabowo Subianto attended the retreat session as part of the 48th ASEAN Summit. This gathering of Southeast Asian leaders took place at the Shangri-La Mactan in Cebu, Philippines, on Friday, 8 May 2026.
According to the Presidential Secretariat, upon arrival at the venue, Prabowo was personally welcomed by Philippine President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Romualdez Marcos Jr., the host of the 48th ASEAN Summit. Afterwards, the Head of State, along with all ASEAN leaders, was directed to the ocean pavilion platform to participate in a group photo session.
The Southeast Asian leaders stood side by side. During the photo session, Prabowo stood between Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah of Brunei Darussalam and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet. Following the group photo, the leaders proceeded to their respective seats to attend the retreat session.
In his opening speech, Philippine President Marcos Jr. highlighted the world’s current state of uncertainty. Bongbong stressed that ongoing conflicts and global dynamics have a direct impact on ASEAN countries.
“We gather at a time of uncertainty, when events occurring far beyond our borders remind us once again of our deep interconnectedness. Neither distance nor partnerships alone can insulate a nation from the repercussions of conflicts in other parts of the world,” said Bongbong on Friday, 8 May 2026.
During the 48th ASEAN Summit in Cebu, President Prabowo Subianto also attended the plenary session. In his speech, Prabowo stated that ASEAN must become a regional anchor of stability amid rising global geopolitical dynamics. According to him, this can be achieved through strengthening solidarity and cooperation among member states.
“We must set an example; we must truly commit to a solid ASEAN that maintains peace, stability, values dialogue, and collaboration,” said Prabowo during the plenary session of the 48th ASEAN Summit on Friday, 8 May 2026.
Prabowo assessed that conflicts and geopolitical rivalries would only bring negative impacts to societies and hinder regional development. Therefore, the Gerindra Party Chairman emphasised that ASEAN must continue to prioritise dialogue and cooperation as the primary foundation for inter-state relations.
“We must not allow competition. We must not let our past determine our present and future. Indonesia is determined to build good neighbourly policies,” stated Prabowo.
The President also reminded Southeast Asian countries to maintain independence and not be influenced by global geopolitical rivalries that could fracture regional unity. “Once again, we must not be swept away or influenced by the current currents of geopolitical competition and egos,” said the former Defence Minister under Joko Widodo.