Philippines' Marcos Calls for Stronger ASEAN Unity at BRICS Summit - Tempo.co English

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. called for strengthened ASEAN unity, sustained dialogue, and adherence to international law while outlining regional priorities during the Open Session of the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, India, on Sunday, September 13, 2026.

Representing the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) as its incoming chair for 2026, Marcos stated that ASEAN’s 11 member states and their combined population of nearly 700 million remain committed to an open, inclusive, and outward-looking regional community amidst various geopolitical and economic challenges.

“We reaffirm that regional stability—and indeed global stability—hinges on our commitment to ASEAN centrality, sustained dialogue, and steadfast adherence to a rules-based order grounded in international law,” Marcos said.

Speaking at the Bharat Mandapam Convention Center, Marcos outlined the priorities for the Philippines' ASEAN chairmanship, which encompass pillars of peace and security, corridors of prosperity, and community empowerment.

He noted that ASEAN continues to enhance maritime cooperation, disaster preparedness, and climate security, while building resilience against geopolitical and economic shocks.

Regarding economic cooperation, Marcos stated that ASEAN is strengthening supply chains, energy security, and food security through initiatives such as the ASEAN Common Shared Power Grid, the ASEAN Petroleum Security Agreement, and a regional rice reserve mechanism.

The Philippines is also pushing for the establishment of a Digital Economy Framework Agreement during its chairmanship and promoting the safe and ethical adoption of artificial intelligence (AI), particularly among micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and women-led businesses.

Marcos added that ASEAN is developing green investment schemes and a joint regional plan for climate-resilient agriculture to ensure food security and support long-term sustainability. Regarding community empowerment, he stated that ASEAN is investing in the younger generation, digital literacy, and resilient families, while also protecting vulnerable groups.

“ASEAN’s enduring strength lies in consensus, bridge-building, and constructive engagement across various regions,” said Marcos.

The Philippines was invited to the BRICS Summit as an "Outreach Country," allowing Marcos to share his views with the group alongside core member states and partner nations.

BRICS—originally formed by Brazil, Russia, India, China, and later South Africa—has expanded its membership in recent years and now includes four ASEAN member states.

The Philippines stated that it would continue to monitor the group's developments while engaging constructively when necessary.

Marcos congratulated Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and India on the country's successful holding of the BRICS chairmanship this year.