ASEAN senior transport officials committed to building a more connected, forward-looking, and people-centered transport sector that responds to evolving regional and global challenges through strengthened cooperation and collective action.
The senior officials made this commitment during the 61st ASEAN Senior Transport Officials Meeting and the 5th ASEAN – U.S. Senior Transport Officials Dialogue convened by the Philippines, as Chair of ASEAN 2026, through the Department of Transportation from May 19-21, 2026 via videoconference.
With a combined population of nearly 700 million, ASEAN is fast becoming the world’s fourth largest economy by 2030, with transportation being one of the key pillars of the region’s shared progress.
During the dialogue, senior transport officials from ASEAN Member States and Dialogue Partners discussed key regional transport priorities, strengthen cooperation, and advance initiatives toward safe, seamless, resilient, sustainable, innovative, and inclusive transport systems across the region.
In line with President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.’s directive to further strengthen transport systems, mobility, and connectivity across the region for the benefit of its citizens, Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez, reaffirmed the Department of Transportation’s commitment to working closely with fellow ASEAN Member States in advancing transport cooperation that improves connectivity, enhances mobility, and supports the welfare and quality of life of ASEAN people.
“As we navigate our future together, it is incumbent upon ASEAN to show the world our strong commitment to continuously work towards strengthening our transport connectivity and mobility for the betterment of our people and the future generations,” Secretary Lopez said.
Transportation Undersecretary for Planning and Project Development Teodorico Jose Delfin likewise called on ASEAN senior transport officials to ensure that regional transport gains translate into tangible and everyday benefits for ASEAN citizens.
“In many ways, transport is one of the most visible and tangible manifestations of ASEAN integration. Through transport, our very people should be able to see, feel, and benefit from ASEAN,” Undersecretary Delfin said.
