Manila: The Philippines will push for stronger regional integration and resilience as this year's chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), as it seeks to help accelerate economic growth across the region, Malaca±ang said Wednesday.

According to Philippines News Agency, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro mentioned that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. welcomed the findings of the Philippine Institute of Development Studies (PIDS) recognizing ASEAN's growing economic and strategic weight and its potential to strengthen the bloc's position as a global power. Castro emphasized that the President is supportive of ASEAN not only maintaining its gains but also accelerating its economic growth further.

'As ASEAN chair, the Philippines will continue working to strengthen this regional integration and resilience while ensuring that the ASEAN remains united and central to regional peace, stability, and economic growth,' Castro stated during a Palace press briefing.

The PIDS, in its study titled 'ASEAN's Ascent: A Global Power in the Making,' highlighted the Philippines' 2026 ASEAN chairship as a pivotal moment to enhance the regional bloc's collective capacity and role in an evolving global landscape. The study pointed out the necessity for stronger regional cohesion and robust institutions to convert ASEAN's economic and strategic potential into lasting global influence.

The report also showcased ASEAN's remarkable economic transformation, with the bloc's combined gross domestic product soaring from USD118 billion in 2000 to USD3.37 trillion in 2023, alongside a population exceeding 685 million. Castro stressed the importance of unity among ASEAN member-states for achieving regional stability and prosperity.

She further mentioned that preparations are underway for the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits, which the Philippines is set to host in November. Castro reiterated the significance of unity among ASEAN countries and their collective efforts towards stability and economic growth.