Manila, November 27 (AseanAll) — Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. met with Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Secretary-General, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn during a courtesy call in Malacanan Palace on November 27, 2025.
Dr. Kao is on a working visit to the Philippines from November 27 to 28 to provide full support for the preparations for the Philippines’ Chairship of ASEAN in 2026.
Dr. Kao paid a courtesy call on President Marcos to discuss key priorities and deliverables for the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairship under the theme, “Navigating our Future, Together.”
Joining the President during the courtesy call were Philippine Foreign Secretary Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro, Executive Secretary Ralph G. Recto, Communications Secretary Dave M. Gomez and Undersecretary Ma. Hellen B. De La Vega, Director General for Operations of the ASEAN National Organizing Council.
During his working visit, Dr. Kao is also scheduled to meet with Lazaro, Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Cristina Aldeguer-Roque, and Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian.
The ASEAN Secretary-General is also scheduled to meet with the Chair of the 2026 ASEAN Business Advisory Council.
During the formal launch last November 14 of ASEAN Philippines 2026, President Marcos said the Philippines’ leadership of the 11-nation bloc will focus on three priorities, namely peace and security anchors; prosperity corridors; and people empowerment.
The official ASEAN Philippines 2026 logo features the rice stalk representing food security; the weave pattern symbolizing interconnection; a wave signifying maritime security and cooperation; and the traditional Filipino boat called illustrating ASEAN’s collective journey.
