Pasay City:The Philippines has urged ASEAN member states to continue their cooperation on social and development concerns as regional officials gather to review priorities and discuss the future direction of the region's socio-cultural agenda. These discussions take place during high-level meetings in Pasay City.
According to Philippines News Agency, the call was made by Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Undersecretary for Policy and Planning and Senior Officials Committee for the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (SOCA) chair, Adonis Sulit, at the opening of the 41st SOCA meeting at Conrad Manila. The Philippines is hosting the SOCA meeting and the 36th ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Council Meeting from November 4 to 6, with participation from officials of the 11 ASEAN member states.
Sulit emphasized the meetings as an opportunity to assess the region's progress and ensure that cooperation meets the changing needs of its people. The discussions will focus on the implementation of the ASCC Blueprint 2025 and Strategic Plan, as well as the development of regional policy priorities. Additionally, the Philippines' 2026 chairship priorities, grouped under RISE—resilient and empowered families; inclusive development; smart youth and innovation; and an environmentally sustainable and food-secure future—will be highlighted.
SOCA leaders will also discuss outcome documents for adoption and notation by ASEAN Leaders at the 49th ASEAN Summit from November 16 to 18. On November 6, the 36th ASCC Council meeting will launch the ASCC Planning, Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning System, aimed at enhancing the existing ASEAN Database to track progress and provide information for policy making.
As the Philippines nears the end of its term as ASEAN chair, Sulit noted that preparations are underway to pass the leadership baton to Singapore. He acknowledged the support of ASEAN member states, the ASEAN Secretariat, and sectoral bodies in advancing the RISE priorities and expressed confidence in Singapore's ability to build upon the progress made during the Philippine chairship. The overarching theme for the Philippines' ASEAN chairship in 2026 is "Navigating our Future, Together."
