Trump confirmed to attend ASEAN Summit in Manila in November

ASM, Philippine Canadian Inquirer
October 15, 2026

Photo courtesy: Time Magazine

MANILA, Philippines — United States President Donald Trump will visit the Philippines in November to attend the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits. The trip will mark his first visit to the country in nine years.

Malacañang confirmed Trump’s attendance on Wednesday, October 14. However, the Palace has yet to release his official schedule or details of possible meetings with Philippine officials.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said Trump’s participation in the regional gathering was already confirmed. Further details of his visit will be announced once finalized.

Trump last visited the Philippines in November 2017, when he attended the 31st ASEAN Summit in Manila during his first term as U.S. president.

Marcos invited Trump to Manila

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. invited Trump to visit the Philippines during their meeting in Washington in July 2025.

At the time, Marcos expressed his intention to welcome the U.S. leader as the Philippines prepared to chair ASEAN in 2026.

The upcoming visit also comes as the two countries celebrate 80 years of diplomatic relations. This year also marks the 75th anniversary of their Mutual Defense Treaty.

The Philippines and the United States maintain close ties in defense, security, trade and investment. Both countries have also strengthened cooperation on regional issues, including maritime security.

Philippines prepares for ASEAN Summit

The Philippines will host the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits in Metro Manila from November 16 to 18.

The meetings will bring together ASEAN leaders and representatives from partner countries to discuss regional cooperation, economic priorities and security concerns.

Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has begun coordinating security preparations with government agencies, local officials and other security partners.

The arrangements aim to protect visiting leaders, foreign delegates and the public throughout the gathering.

President Marcos has also declared November 16 to 18 as special non-working days across Metro Manila. The measure aims to help manage traffic and support security operations during the summit.

The United States has been an ASEAN dialogue partner since 1977. Its cooperation with the regional bloc covers trade, investment, regional stability and maritime security.

For now, Malacañang has not confirmed whether Trump and Marcos will hold a separate bilateral meeting during the summit. The Palace said additional details would be released once arrangements are finalized.