
Marcos Returns from ASEAN Summit: Key Outcomes and West Philippine Sea Stance
President Marcos Returns from ASEAN Summit, Reaffirms West Philippine Sea Stance President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. returned to the Philippines on May 27, 2025, following his participation in the 46th ASEAN Summit and related summits held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. In a video statement released by RTVM and shared by GMA News, he summarized the key outcomes and achievements of the summits. Marcos emphasized ASEAN's collective commitment to upholding sovereignty, fostering economic resilience, and strengthening regional cooperation. He stated, "The summit was once again an opportunity to discuss among our fellow ASEAN member states and partners how we should navigate our future together." The President also used the opportunity to reaffirm the Philippines' unwavering support for its sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea, aligning with international law. He highlighted the adoption of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, which sets a direction for the next two decades of ASEAN's development. The video also touched on discussions regarding the impact of unilateral tariff measures and the establishment of the ASEAN Geoeconomics Task Force, designed to provide real-time analysis and policy recommendations. The President's return and his statement are significant because they provide insight into the Philippines' foreign policy priorities and its role within the ASEAN community. The emphasis on the West Philippine Sea underscores the ongoing territorial disputes in the region. The adoption of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 demonstrates a commitment to long-term regional cooperation and development.