The Philippine Ambassador to Singapore delivered the inaugural lecture of the Distinguished Speakers Series at the National University of Singapore. The session focused on the Philippines’ priorities as ASEAN Chair in 2026 and its vision for regional cooperation
SINGAPORE, 11 April 2026 – Mr Medardo Antonio G. Macaraig, Ambassador of the Philippines to Singapore, delivered the inaugural lecture of the Distinguished Speakers Series organised by the Centre for International Law at the National University of Singapore on 9 April 2026. The lecture outlined the Philippines’ priorities and approach as Chair of ASEAN in 2026.
Held at the NUS Bukit Timah Campus, the event brought together members of the diplomatic corps, academia, and think tanks. The session formed part of an academic engagement platform aimed at facilitating dialogue on regional developments and international law.
In his remarks, Ambassador Macaraig presented the Philippines’ Chairship theme, “Navigating Our Future, Together,” highlighting ASEAN’s unity, centrality, and collective approach in addressing an evolving global environment. He emphasised the importance of maintaining regional peace, stability, and prosperity through cooperation and shared values.
Source: Philippine Embassy in Singapore
The Ambassador outlined three core priorities guiding the Chairship: Peace and Security Anchors, Prosperity Corridors, and People Empowerment, supported by the LEAD, SAIL, and RISE ASEAN frameworks. These initiatives aim to strengthen regional security norms, enhance economic connectivity and digital transformation, and promote inclusive, people-centred development. He also noted the importance of emerging areas such as artificial intelligence, MSME development, youth engagement, and social protection.
Further, the Ambassador highlighted key deliverables under the Philippines’ Chairship, including the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation (TAC), advancements in maritime cooperation, and strengthened engagement with external partners. He underscored ASEAN’s role in responding to geopolitical developments and reaffirmed the importance of a rules-based regional order grounded in dialogue, mutual respect, and international law.
The lecture concluded with a forward-looking perspective on ASEAN’s development, with the Ambassador reaffirming the Philippines’ commitment to strengthening a cohesive, resilient, and inclusive regional community. Continued engagement with academic and policy institutions is expected to support ASEAN’s efforts in addressing shared challenges and advancing sustainable growth in the Indo-Pacific.
Source: Philippine Embassy in Singapore
