President Prabowo arrived at approximately 9:04 a.m. local time and was greeted by Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Mrs. Marie Louise Cacho Araneta Marcos.
The meeting between the two leaders was cordial and concluded with a group photo before entering the conference room with other ASEAN leaders.
In his opening remarks, President Marcos Jr. emphasized the importance of maintaining dialogue, cooperation, and mutual respect as the main foundations of ASEAN in facing global dynamics.
“Your presence here reflects not only the urgency and importance of this event, but also our shared commitment to the enduring values that continue to bind our region: dialogue, cooperation, and mutual respect,” said Marcos Jr.
He also emphasized that global challenges should strengthen the unity of ASEAN countries.
“If there’s one lesson ASEAN has learned over the decades, it’s that difficult times don’t divide us,” he said.
As part of the summit series, President Prabowo previously attended the BIMP-EAGA forum and highlighted the importance of strengthening regional collaboration to address global pressures and geopolitical instability.
“This Special Summit comes at a very critical time. The challenges we face demand closer and more effective collaboration among us,” said President Prabowo.
The President also emphasized that BIMP-EAGA cooperation must be increasingly adaptive and have a real impact on society. He also highlighted energy security as a pressing issue amid increasing global pressures.
“Energy security is one of the important issues we face today. This is no longer a long-term problem, but an urgent one,” the President emphasized.
Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto, who accompanied the President, stated that the 2026 ASEAN Summit will focus on energy security, food security, and regional economic stability.
“The 48th ASEAN Summit will highlight various global challenges affecting the region, particularly energy, food, and economic stability,” said Airlangga.
Through active participation in the 2026 ASEAN Summit, Indonesia reaffirms its role as a key driver of strengthening cooperation and stability in the Southeast Asian region.