Philippines to host Asean 2026

Philippines to host Asean 2026

Third Anne Peralta-Malonzo
sunstar.co.ph
29 October 2025

THE Philippines will host the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) in 2026.

During the Kapihan with the Media in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, Marcos said the Philippines’ hosting of the 2026 Asean Summit will be “chill and hospitable.”

Marcos formally received the Asean chairmanship gavel from Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim during the symbolic handover at the closing ceremony of the 47th Asean Summit, marking the Philippines’ assumption of the Asean chairmanship next year.

The Philippines last hosted the Asean Summit in 2017.

“We are now in the process of putting together the different elements of where we think Asean should be focusing,” said Marcos.

“So one of the things is the COC (Code of Conduct), for example. Number one para sa atin. The other member states, that’s not as a big priority to them as it is to us. So, this is our chance to really promote that and to highlight that, and hopefully we will succeed,” he added.

The President was referring to the COC in the South China Sea being negotiated among Asean member states and China amid the ongoing dispute in the West Philippine Sea.

Marcos also welcomed the social media characterization of the Philippines as the “chill dude” member of the Asean, noting that it reflects the Filipino people’s well-known values of hospitality and friendliness.

“I’m glad that ang starting point natin, ang tingin sa Pilipino ay ‘yun na nga ‘chill’ at madaling kausap. That’s a big help pagka you’re trying to find consensus,” he said.

(I’m glad that our starting point is seeing Filipinos as ‘chill’ and easy to talk to. That’s a big help when you’re trying to find consensus.)

Marcos stressed that the Filipinos’ nature of being lighthearted and approachable continues to serve the country well, especially in international relations.

“I agree. Sa palagay ko naman totoo din naman na talagang ganoon ang Pinoy. Magaan ang ugali ng Pinoy talaga. And that is to our advantage,” he said.

(I agree. I also think it’s true that Filipinos are really like that — they have an easygoing nature. And that is to our advantage.)

“We will present always the best possible side so that we are met with the most possible successes,” he added. (TPM/SunStar Philippines)

Philippines officially assumed the 2026 Chairship of the ASEAN Business Advisory Council

Philippines assumes 2026 ASEAN-BAC chairship

Philstar Global
29 October 2025

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia — The Philippines officially assumed the 2026 Chairship of the ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC) on October 26, 2025, as ASEAN-BAC Malaysia handed over leadership of the regional body.

The council provides private sector guidance to boost ASEAN’s economic integration and identifies priority areas for consideration by ASEAN Leaders.

The ASEAN-BAC Philippines delegation, led by Chair Jose Ma. Concepcion III and council members George Barcelon and Michael Tan, traveled to Kuala Lumpur for the handover ceremonies.

The event was a highlight of the ASEAN-BAC Events and Related Summits held from October 24 to 27, which included the ASEAN Business & Investment Summit, the ASEAN Business Awards and the inaugural ASEAN Inclusive Growth Summit.

These events coincided with the 47th ASEAN Summit, which gathers leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

ASEAN-BAC Philippines will continue to follow the guiding theme of “Prosperity for All”, first adopted during its previous chairship in 2017.

“There has been plenty of exchanging of ideas, and I am glad to hear how some resonate with my own views of the role of ASEAN and the private sector in bringing about inclusive, sustainable growth,” Concepcion said.

“As we take on this new role, our goal is to build on this momentum, empowering MSMEs and strengthening partnerships that drive inclusive growth and food security across the region. Together, we can ensure that the ASEAN spirit of unity, innovation, and entrepreneurship continues to thrive,” he added.

Filipino design makes a bold entrance at NY Fashion Week

Filipino design makes a bold entrance at NY Fashion Week

Pauline Miranda 

Inquirer|Lifestyle

26 October 2025

Gone are the days when Philippine textiles and weaves were solely reserved for formal occasions and cultural celebrations. Filipino designers today have constantly been pushing the envelope, reimagining the myriad ways and situations in which we can proudly wear our culture.

Pinas Sadya, a homegrown Filipino brand, recently debuted at New York Fashion Week, showcasing not just our local patterns and textiles but also bringing to the international runway the creative energy that runs through the Philippine fashion industry today.

With bold patterns in blocked colors and flowing layers, Pinas Sadya’s presentation highlights the “radiant, confident, and playful” essence of the Filipina today. The campaign called “Kabogera with a Purpose” featured Maymay Entrata’s “Amakabogera” as its anthem on the runway.

“You are born to shine, to stand out, and to achieve your best,” says Pinas Sadya founder Skeeter Labastilla-Turgut. “This collection is meant to accompany you at different parts of your journey, as you discover, fulfill, and share your purpose.”

“There’s a growing global appetite for Philippine-made, thoughtfully designed products. The response we received confirmed that Filipino creativity resonates internationally while staying true to its roots,” notes Valerie Fischer, co-founder and general manager of Pinas Sadya.

“You are born to shine, to stand out, and to achieve your best,” says Pinas Sadya founder Skeeter Labastilla-Turgut. “This collection is meant to accompany you at different parts of your journey, as you discover, fulfill, and share your purpose”

Fischer adds, “It has been very exciting to see our audience engage with the collection and connect with the stories behind the pieces. The enthusiasm and feedback reinforced the potential for Filipino brands on a global scale.”

The New York Fashion Week presentation also featured work by partner designers and creatives. Accessories by Filipino artist and designer Farah Abu accompanied the Pinas Sadya pieces, adding depth, cohesion, and personality to the looks.

Following their fashion week appearance, Pinas Sadya will join other Filipino brands in a special cultural expo also happening in New York: Yaman 2025, which is set to take place from Oct. 31 to Nov. 2 at Marriot Marquis, Times Square, New York.