Malacañang on Thursday said the Philippines is fully prepared to host meetings tied to the 48th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit, including the leaders’ gathering scheduled in Cebu this May.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said Executive Secretary Ralph Recto, who chairs the ASEAN National Organizing Committee, has briefed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on the status of preparations, assuring that all arrangements are in place.
“Ayon sa report ni ES Ralph Recto sa Pangulo, all systems go na po at handa na tayo,” Castro said.
The Philippines, serving as ASEAN chair this year, is set to host a series of high-level engagements, including the 48th ASEAN Summit in May and the 49th ASEAN Summit in November.
Leaders from member states are expected to attend the summit in Cebu from May 7 to 8, with related meetings to be held in various locations across the country.
Some sessions may also be conducted virtually due to ongoing tensions in the Middle East, which have affected international travel and scheduling.
The government said preparations cover logistics, security, and coordination with participating countries to ensure the smooth conduct of the regional events.