First Lady Marcos Monitors ASEAN Summit Preparations
First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos is actively overseeing the Philippines’ preparations for hosting the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summits next year. This week, she visited the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City to inspect ongoing rehabilitation efforts. The First Lady emphasized the importance of these upgrades, highlighting how the PICC has witnessed many significant moments in the country’s history and is now being readied to welcome global leaders once again.
She shared her visit through an Instagram post, expressing gratitude to the PICC team and the ASEAN National Organizing Committee. “Their dedication in making this landmark a venue reflects not just our hospitality, but our strength, our progress, and our vision for the region,” Marcos said. This phrase reflects the commitment behind the country’s preparations for the ASEAN summit.
Ongoing Efforts Across Key Venues
This isn’t the First Lady’s first inspection of the PICC renovations. Earlier this year, she also visited the Coconut Palace, which once served as the Office of the Vice President. Her vigilance extends beyond Manila; in April, she toured Mactan in Cebu to explore potential venues for ASEAN 2026. She praised Cebu’s stunning scenery, rich culture, and warm hospitality, describing the island as one of the country’s brightest jewels.
During her Cebu visit, she inspected major facilities including Shangri-La Mactan, Sheraton Mactan, and the Mactan Expo Center. Local officials noted that the careful selection and upgrading of these venues demonstrate the Philippines’ readiness to host the regional summit.
National Preparations and Challenges Ahead
The Philippines will chair ASEAN’s 48th and 49th summits in 2026 after Southeast Asian leaders decided Myanmar would no longer host due to political instability. Malaysia hosted the summit this year. With this responsibility, the government is actively preparing for the influx of international delegates and media.
Among the preparations is the rehabilitation of EDSA, Metro Manila’s main thoroughfare. However, President Marcos ordered a suspension of these works until authorities develop solid rerouting plans and integrate newer, faster technologies to minimize commuter disruption. “We will find a better way na hindi masyadong mahirap para sa ating mga commuter,” he said. He added, “Hangga’t wala akong nakikitang solid na mga rerouting plans at masiguro na handang-handa na ang mga LGUs, huwag muna natin gawin.”
These cautious steps show the government’s commitment to balancing infrastructure improvements with everyday convenience for Filipinos.
Looking Forward to ASEAN 2026
The ongoing preparations led by the First Lady and government agencies highlight the Philippines’ dedication to hosting a successful ASEAN summit. By upgrading key venues and ensuring logistical plans are well thought out, the country aims to showcase its hospitality, progress, and leadership in the region.
For more news and updates on ASEAN summit preparations, visit Filipinokami.com.