Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei personally piloted his aircraft to Cebu for the ASEAN 2026 Summit. The Sultan, a licensed pilot, landed at Mactan–Benito N. Ebuen Air Base on May 7.
Accompanied by his son, Prince Abdul Mateen, the Sultan's arrival marked the start of the 48th ASEAN Summit and Related Meetings, which will take place on May 7-8.
Upon landing, they were greeted by key officials including Department of Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rex Gatchalian, Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro, and Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Cynthia King-Chan.
Significance of the ASEAN 2026 Summit
Cebu has been selected as the host city for this year's summit, with the Philippines serving as chair. Major events will occur in Mactan, Lapu-Lapu City.
Leaders from all ASEAN member states are expected to attend, with the exception of Myanmar, which will send its Permanent Secretary of Foreign Affairs.
The Sultan's personal flight showcases his commitment to the ASEAN community.
Local Officials
The discussions at the summit are anticipated to cover various topics crucial to regional cooperation and development.