Philippines pushes stronger ASEAN unity as bloc eyes greater global influence

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
August 26, 2026

Photo Courtesy: Presidential Communications Office

PHILIPPINES – The Philippines is using its 2026 chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to push for stronger regional integration, resilience and economic growth, as the bloc seeks to expand its influence on the global stage.

Malacañang said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. welcomed a Philippine Institute of Development Studies (PIDS) report highlighting ASEAN’s growing economic and strategic importance.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the Philippines aims to help ASEAN build on its economic gains while accelerating growth and strengthening cooperation among member-states.

The PIDS study, “ASEAN’s Ascent: A Global Power in the Making,” said the Philippines’ chairmanship provides an opportunity to strengthen ASEAN’s collective capacity and role amid a changing global order.

ASEAN’s economic weight has expanded significantly, with its combined GDP growing from US$118 billion in 2000 to US$3.37 trillion in 2023, while its population has surpassed 685 million.

Castro stressed that greater unity among ASEAN members will be crucial in promoting regional peace, stability and prosperity.

With the Philippines set to host the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits in November, the administration is positioning its chairmanship as an opportunity to turn ASEAN’s growing economic strength into greater regional resilience and global influence.