President of the Philippines Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said on Tuesday that his country is ready to chair the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 2026, instead of 2027, as originally scheduled. The organization made the decision to take the 2026 chairing duties away from Myanmar, which has been embroiled in political turmoil and violence since the military coup in 2021.
"We will fortify the foundations of our community-building and navigate ASEAN as it embarks on a new chapter. We will count on the support of fellow member states and continue to work with our partners to strengthen ASEAN centrality and to promote peace, security, stability, and prosperity in the region," Marcos said.