Amid rising tensions in the West Philippine Sea, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday joined fellow leaders at the historic ASEAN-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)-China Summit, held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
The summit was convened as part of the 46th ASEAN Summit, drawing attention not only for its promise of trilateral collaboration but also for its timing—coming just days after another wave of Chinese aggression against Philippine vessels in the contested waters.
In his remarks, President Marcos called for joint investments in artificial intelligence (AI), digital infrastructure, and the development of digital skills. He said the region needs to prepare its youth, entrepreneurs, and workforce for the evolving demands of an AI-driven world.
“We must close connectivity gaps, strengthen digital infrastructure, and promote open, responsible innovation,” he said.
“Let us also deepen cooperation in digital trade, cybersecurity, and the development of digital skills so that our youth, our entrepreneurs, and our workers are equipped to thrive in an AI-driven world,” he added.
On sustainable development, the President advocated for partnerships in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and food security, warning of the fragility of global food systems and the urgent need to build resilience.
He also called attention to the importance of human connections, proposing deeper cooperation in education, tourism, and cultural exchange as vital long-term foundations for peace and prosperity in the region.
“As we navigate an increasingly complex global landscape, the Philippines remains firmly committed to deepening our engagement with partners across the Gulf, China, and our fellow Member States,” Marcos said.
President Marcos urged ASEAN, GCC, and China to seize the opportunity to deepen their engagement, asserting that the partnership must be shaped not by rivalry but by shared growth and trust.
“We see a future shaped not by competition, but by collaboration, especially given our shared values, shared aspirations, and our shared growth,” the President said.
He said that beyond economic weight, it is “the enduring connection between our peoples that gives true meaning to our partnership.”
The President’s message stood as a firm yet diplomatic call for unity and shared progress—even as the Philippines faces mounting pressure from Chinese incursions in its maritime domain.
