As the Philippines assumes the chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 2026, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. faces a formidable dual challenge: advancing the nation’s maritime security interests while managing a deteriorating domestic  political situation. The convergence of these pressures will test not only Manila’s diplomatic capabilities but also ASEAN’s institutional resilience in addressing one of Asia’s most contentious geopolitical flashpoints.

Forging a CoC amid contested waters. (2026, February 8). Daily Tribune, p. A4-5.