The Philippines has officially commenced its leadership of the 35th ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Council Meeting, promising a summit that blends high-level policy with a vibrant showcase of Filipino identity.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the lead agency for this year’s ASCC meetings, announced on Monday that the events will run through March 5, 2026. Under the Philippines’ Chairship, the summit aims to pivot the regional bloc toward a more “people-oriented and people-centered” future.
While the core of the summit involves critical regional strategy, DSWD Assistant Secretary Irene B. Dumlao emphasized that the Philippines will leverage its hosting duties to foster deeper regional ties through cultural exchange.
“Beyond these high-level meetings, the richness of the Filipino culture will also be highlighted through our curated gastronomic and heritage tours and performances of traditional music and dance,” said Assistant Secretary Dumlao.
The meetings are presided over by H.E. Rex Gatchalian of the Philippines as ASCC Chair, supported by H.E. Masagos Zulkifli of Singapore as Vice Chair. The delegation includes ministers and representatives from:
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Member States: Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam.
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Observer State: Timor-Leste.
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The ASEAN Secretariat.
As the 2026 ASEAN Chair, the Philippines is prioritizing a social agenda that resonates with the everyday lives of the region’s citizens. The DSWD noted that the “spirit of unity” is the cornerstone of this year’s hosting duties, aiming to bridge the gap between policy-making and community impact.
“The Philippines welcomes our ASEAN family not only with a strong pro-people agenda but with the spirit of unity,” Dumlao added, underlining the nation’s commitment to a collective regional identity.
