KUALA LUMPUR (Jan 1): The Philippines is expected to build on the momentum of previous Asean chairmanships by focusing on the bloc’s three core pillars — peace and security, prosperity, and people empowerment — as well as strengthening its socio-cultural agenda when it assumes the chairmanship for 2026. He said Manila is expected to build on the momentum established by previous chairmanships, with continued focus on the three main pillars of the Asean Community. "I expect Manila to continue building upon the momentum established by previous chairs, focusing on progress rather than reinvention, with a strong commitment to the three pillars of the Asean Community and Asean Connectivity," he said. "These efforts include narrowing the digital divide, improving cybersecurity cooperation, supporting the development of the Asean digital economy, and concluding the Asean Digital Economy Framework Agreement (Defa)," he added. "May the year ahead bring peace, prosperity, and strengthened, renewed cooperation as we continue building a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable Asean for all," said the secretariat.

Source: The Edge Markets January 01, 2026 10:35 UTC