Kuala Lumpur: The Philippines has expressed its commitment to continue building on Malaysia's ongoing momentum in addressing issues when it assumes the ASEAN Chair in 2026. Philippines' Undersecretary for Bilateral Relations and ASEAN Affairs Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro emphasized that Manila views its forthcoming chairmanship as a significant milestone, aligning closely with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr's diplomatic agenda.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Lazaro stated, "There are a lot of challenges ahead, but we are taking such an important role as we are chairing the ASEAN, the (Philippines') chairmanship will be next year. It is very important in the agenda of President Marcos Jr that we also build on what Malaysia is doing in this chairmanship, and we congratulate you (Malaysia) for what you've been doing." She made these remarks to reporters on the sidelines of the ASEAN Senior Officials' Meeting (SOM) today.

In a recent Cabinet reshuffle by President Marcos, Lazaro was appointed as Secretary of Foreign Affairs effective July 31, pending confirmation proceedings in Congress. She is set to replace Enrique Manalo, who will become the country's next permanent representative to the United Nations.

The SOM, which began at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, is a crucial preparatory phase ahead of the 46th ASEAN Summit, scheduled from May 26 to 27. SOM Leaders, Timor-Leste's SOM representatives, and officials from the ASEAN Secretariat are attending the meeting.

The 46th ASEAN Summit will bring together leaders from the bloc's member states to discuss regional issues, foster economic cooperation, and advance the principles of inclusivity and sustainability. Kuala Lumpur will also host the second ASEAN-GCC Summit and the inaugural ASEAN-GCC-China Summit concurrently.