H.E. Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., President of the Republic of the Philippines led the Philippine delegation to the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits and Related Summits held on 8-11 October 2024 at the National Convention Center in Vientiane. Chaired by H.E. Sonexay Siphandone, Prime Minister of the Lao PDR, the Summits discussed ways to foster regional cooperation and address emerging issues. Discussions likewise centered on the theme “Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience”.

The 4-day Summits resulted in the adoption of more than 90 documents, “paving the way for the nations to agree on coordination and connectivity measures that helps ASEAN further develop towards a strong, innovative, flexible and people-centered bloc”, as announced by ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn in a press conference. During the closing ceremony, the Lao PDR handed over the ASEAN Chairmanship to Malaysia.

The Philippine President also met with the leaders of Vietnam, Canada, and New Zealand, among others, to discuss matters of mutual interest and significant and emerging regional and global issues.

Aside from participating in the ASEAN Summits, the President likewise delivered keynote remarks at the ASEAN Business and Investment Summit (ABIS), and met with business delegations. President Marcos, together with First Lady Marie Louise A. Marcos, also met with members of the Filipino Community in the Lao PDR.

Photo courtesy of Presidential Communications Office

Photo courtesy of Presidential Communications Office