BBM returns from Asean meet

President Marcos returned to the Philippines Friday night after attending the 44th and 45th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summits and Related Summits in Laos.

- By ALEXIS ROMERO

He said this engagement allowed him to reaffirm the country's commitment to working with its partners to address challenges and promote common interests.

"The discussions amongst our partners and friends were not just about the challenges that we face individually, but... also about our shared commitment to finding enduring solutions that will safeguard our collective future," Marcos said in a recorded arrival statement.

According to Marcos, the ASEAN leaders agreed to work more closely together in promoting sustainable agriculture to achieve long-term food security.

He added that the Philippines is collaborating with its partners to support small and medium-sized businesses by addressing financing gaps and enhancing their capacities to integrate into global supply chains.

The President also said the members of the regional bloc are also exerting their efforts to support the digital transformation of their economies.

"We are shepherding efforts in ASEAN to promote inclusive and sustainable tourism across the region as well. This will complement the Philippines' initiatives in positioning itself as a prime destination for sustainable tourism," he added.

Marcos highlighted the Philippines hosting meetings that tackle the issues of climate change and disaster risk reduction such as the Loss and Damage Fund Board and the Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction.

"As the host of the Loss and Damage Fund Board, the Philippines is privileged to play a strategic role in supporting the flow of climate finance to countries that are most vulnerable to climate change, as well as to advocate for needed support and action on climate resilience," the Chief Executive said.

Meanwhile, the disaster risk reduction conference will be held in the country next week.