Makati City, March 5 (AseanAll) — The Philippines on March 5, 2026 proposed the Manila-ASEAN Strategic Protocol for Emergency and Comprehensive Transformation (Manila-ASPECT) Framework to heighten the regional bloc’s disaster response and to step up coordination.
Philippine Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian said, “This is a strategic initiative to strengthen ASEAN’s disaster response and enhance regional coordination. It will also signal our commitment to One ASEAN, One Response to leaving no one behind, especially sectors in vulnerable situations.”
Gatchalian, chair of the 35th ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Council Meeting in Makati City, said in his opening remarks.
The Philippines’ initiative shows the country’s commitment to protecting vulnerable sectors, Gatchalian added.
The Manila-ASPECT Framework provides ASEAN Member States with a standardized approach to improve regional interoperability, data sharing, logistics, and cross-border processes, supporting people-oriented and rights-based disaster response.
“Further discussion and coordination on this initiative will take place in the coming months to ensure effective implementation and collective action across Member States,” Gatchalian said.
During the 35th ASCC Council Meeting, regional ministers will formally adopt key frameworks and finalize priority social policies for Southeast Asia.
The Philippines’ proposed strategy aims to ensure food security, climate resilience, and disaster preparedness for the stability of the ASEAN community, given the region’s high vulnerability to climate change and natural disasters affecting ASEAN Member States.
In line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s advocacy, the Philippines is pushing for a more robust and adequate ASEAN-wide response system, as well as coordinated action on disaster risk reduction, climate resilience, and sustainable food assistance to protect communities and livelihoods.
“To strengthen regional cooperation and partnerships, ASEAN can enhance its collective ability not only to respond and recover but to build long-term resilience for our people,” Gatchalian said.
ASEAN officials have initially concluded this week the 40th ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (SOCA) Meeting and the High-Level ASCC Council Forum 2026.
The meetings, hosted by the DSWD, were held under the Philippines Chairship’s theme: “Navigating our Future, Together.”
