The Philippines, as ASEAN Chair in 2026, hosted a series of commemorative events in Manila to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation (TAC). The milestone was marked by the accession of four new High Contracting Parties and a high-level conference reaffirming the treaty’s enduring relevance.
The Philippines commemorated the 50th anniversary of the ASEAN Treaty of Amity and Cooperation (TAC) by hosting a series of high-level events in Manila on 24 July 2026, officially designated as ‘TAC Day’. Organised as part of the country’s role as ASEAN Chair, the celebrations underscored the treaty’s enduring significance as a cornerstone of regional peace, stability and cooperation.
The commemorative programme brought together senior representatives of the High Contracting Parties to the TAC from across ASEAN and beyond. A key highlight was the signing ceremony for the Instruments of Accession of four new High Contracting Parties, reflecting the treaty’s continued appeal and growing international recognition as a framework for peaceful relations and dialogue.
Another major feature of the occasion was a high-level conference that convened policymakers, diplomats and regional stakeholders to discuss the TAC’s contribution to fostering mutual respect, non-interference, peaceful dispute settlement and cooperation among nations. Participants also exchanged views on the treaty’s evolving role in addressing emerging regional and global challenges while preserving ASEAN’s centrality.
Originally signed in 1976, the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation has become one of ASEAN’s most important legal instruments, providing guiding principles for interstate relations in the region. Over the past five decades, an increasing number of countries and organisations have acceded to the treaty, demonstrating broad international support for its principles of peaceful coexistence and constructive engagement.
The 50th anniversary celebrations reaffirmed ASEAN’s commitment to strengthening regional unity, dialogue and rules-based cooperation. By designating 24 July as ‘TAC Day’, the Philippines highlighted the treaty’s lasting legacy while encouraging continued collaboration among its High Contracting Parties in promoting peace, stability and prosperity across the Indo-Pacific.
Source: ASEAN
