Headline

Marcos pushes ASEAN peace, growth agenda at BRICS Summit in India

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3 hours ago

September 14, 2026

Abi Sarabia M.

ASM, Philippine Canadian Inquirer
September 14, 2026

Photo courtesy: Presidential Communication Office

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. called for stronger regional cooperation, sustained dialogue and adherence to international law as he presented ASEAN’s priorities on peace, economic resilience and people-centered development at the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, India.

Representing the Association of Southeast Asian Nations as its 2026 chair, Marcos addressed world leaders during the summit’s Open Session on Sunday, September 13, outlining the Philippines’ ASEAN chairship priorities: Peace and Security Anchors, Prosperity Corridors, and People Empowerment.

Marcos said ASEAN’s 11 member states, representing nearly 700 million people, remain committed to an open, inclusive and outward-looking regional community amid geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty.

He stressed that regional and global stability depend on ASEAN centrality, sustained dialogue and a rules-based order anchored in international law.

Under the peace and security pillar, Marcos said ASEAN is strengthening cooperation on maritime issues, disaster preparedness and climate security while building resilience against geopolitical and economic shocks.

On economic cooperation, the President said the regional bloc is working to strengthen supply chains as well as food and energy security.

He cited efforts involving the ASEAN power grid, regional energy-security mechanisms and rice reserves, while highlighting the Philippines’ push to advance the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement during its chairship.

Marcos also promoted the safe and ethical adoption of artificial intelligence, particularly for micro, small and medium enterprises and women-led businesses.

ASEAN is also pursuing green investment initiatives and regional cooperation on climate-resilient and food-secure agriculture, he said.

On people empowerment, Marcos said the regional bloc is investing in youth, digital literacy and resilient families while strengthening protection for vulnerable sectors.

“ASEAN’s enduring strength lies in consensus, bridge building, and constructive engagement across regions,” Marcos said.

The Philippines attended the summit as an Outreach Country, allowing it to participate in discussions with BRICS members and partner countries without becoming a member or partner of the grouping.

Marcos arrived in New Delhi early Saturday morning, Manila time, with First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos and members of his Cabinet for the two-day summit hosted by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The President also held meetings with Indian business leaders during the trip as the Philippines seeks additional investments and expansion in sectors including technology, healthcare, agriculture, telecommunications and other industries.

Marcos was also scheduled to meet Modi to review the Philippines-India strategic partnership and deepen cooperation in areas including defense, trade, digital technology, health, tourism and connectivity.

The BRICS Summit, held from September 12 to 13 under the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability,” brought together leaders of major emerging and developing economies, including Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

BRICS has expanded from its original grouping of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa to 11 member countries.