Marcos Attends ASEAN Summit as Bloc Seeks Unified Response to U.S. Tariffs

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. attended the 46th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, to discuss key regional issues, including the bloc's collective stance on the recently imposed U.S. tariffs.

Marcos stressed the need for ASEAN unity in responding to global trade challenges, particularly the new U.S. tariffs ranging from 10% to 49%, which have alarmed export-reliant nations like the Philippines. ASEAN has since formed a task force to coordinate a joint response and initiate dialogue with the U.S.

"This summit is an opportunity for ASEAN to present a united front in defending the region's economic interests," President Marcos said. "By working together, we can navigate global uncertainties and ensure inclusive growth for our people."

Aside from trade, leaders also tackled the Myanmar crisis, South China Sea tensions, and the ethical regulation of artificial intelligence. Marcos highlighted the importance of ASEAN Centrality in addressing these shared concerns.

The summit aims to forge concrete steps to strengthen regional unity and cooperation amid ongoing economic and security challenges.