Manila, January 29 (AseanAll)  — Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. emphasized gratitude, determination, and regional cooperation as the Philippines assumed the Association of Southeast Asian Nations-Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC) Chairship for 2026.

During the ceremonial handover at Malacañan Palace on January 29, 2026, Marcos vowed to further strengthen trade and investment opportunities across Southeast Asia while guiding ASEAN toward inclusive growth and shared progress.

“As we mark the transition of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations-Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC) Chairship from Malaysia to the Philippines, we do so with gratitude and with determination,” said the President.

“Gratitude—for the strong foundation laid by our predecessors; and with determination—to carry forward this work with the same sense of purpose and cooperation that defines ASEAN.”

Marcos said the Philippines assumes the ASEAN-BAC Chairship guided by the theme as this year’s ASEAN Chair, “Navigating Our Future, Together.”

Saying the theme acknowledges the emerging needs and challenges across the region, the President noted the economic transformation, technological advancement, and progress toward inclusive growth in ASEAN.

The Chief Executive said ASEAN ensures that progress is guided by cooperation, strengthened by mutual trust, and anchored in common accountability.

“This is how we turn uncertainty into opportunity and change into lasting progress.”

Marcos recognized the ASEAN-BAC’s leadership for driving forward-looking, inclusive, and responsive initiatives in the region.

“As we move forward, let us invest in the enduring promise of ASEAN itself—in our people, in our partnerships, and in the future we are creating together,” said the President.

“When we commit to cooperation anchored in trust and purpose, we ensure that progress reaches every community and opportunity remains within reach of all,” the President added.