Disaster resilience, energy security key topics in ASEAN Summit

Local

SOUTHEAST Asian leaders placed disaster resilience and energy security at the center of the 2026 ASEAN Summit agenda as Cebu starts its hosting of the regional event this week.

Acting Presidential Communications Secretary Dave Gomez presented the priorities during the opening of the 2026 ASEAN International Media Center (IMC) at the Mactan World Museum in Lapu-Lapu City on Tuesday, May 5.

Gomez said ASEAN countries commit to collaborative frameworks that strengthen community-based early warning systems, rapid humanitarian response, and support for affected populations.

“The leaders have refocused the agenda to include discussions on energy security and a unified response to mitigate negative effects on individual member states,” he said.

Gomez said the initiative aims to prevent volcanic disasters such as the recent Mayon Volcano restiveness from undermining vulnerable communities and promote inclusive, people-centered resilience strategies across ASEAN member states.

Gomez said energy security takes a central place in the summit agenda as Asia faces rising fuel costs linked to tensions in the Middle East.

Meanwhile, the IMC was opened to support coverage of the 48th ASEAN Summit and related meetings.

The facility at the Mactan World Museum serves as a hub for local and international media.

ASEAN 2026 National Organizing Council Director General for Operations Hellen De La Vega released the summit schedule and confirmed Senior Officials’ and Ministerial Preparatory Meetings from May 6 to 7 at Dusit Thani Mactan and Shangri-La Mactan.

De La Vega said leaders from ASEAN member states convene in Lapu-Lapu City for the summit, with the Special BIMP-EAGA Summit set on May 7 at Shangri-La Mactan, involving Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines.

The 48th ASEAN Summit opens on May 8 at the Mactan Expo in Mactan Newtown, followed by leaders’ meetings, a working lunch, and a retreat session at Shangri-La Mactan.

President Marcos will hold a press conference at the IMC at 4 p.m., followed by a gala dinner hosted by the President and First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos.(MyTVCebu)