President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. is set to address the media in Cebu on Friday, coinciding with the opening of the 48th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) Summit.
The press conference, scheduled at the International Media Center, follows a day of high-level meetings among Asean leaders.
As this year's summit chair, Marcos will lead discussions on crucial topics such as regional stability, food and energy security, and economic cooperation amid global tensions.
All Asean member states, with the exception of Myanmar, have confirmed their attendance. This includes heads of state from ten countries.
We are guided by the leaders’ decision regarding Myanmar’s representation due to the ongoing political situation there.
Dax Imperial, DFA Spokesperson
Myanmar is represented by its Permanent Secretary of Foreign Affairs, reflecting Asean's ongoing stance on the country's political turmoil.
The summit's agenda includes an official opening ceremony, plenary discussions, and bilateral meetings, with a gala dinner planned for later.
Marcos is expected to discuss significant agreements and Asean's strategies to tackle global economic and energy challenges.
This summit is particularly significant as Southeast Asian nations face rising energy costs and supply chain issues.
The Philippine government has implemented budget-saving measures for this event, consolidating activities into two days and conducting some meetings online.
Cebu and Mactan Island are under heightened security as international delegates and media arrive for the summit.