By Marita Moaje
MANILA – The Philippines has called on ASEAN member states to sustain cooperation on social and development concerns as regional officials review priorities, assess ongoing programs, and discuss the future direction of the region’s socio-cultural agenda during high-level meetings in Pasay City.
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 made the call at the opening of the 41st SOCA meeting at Conrad Manila on Wednesday.
The Philippines, through the DSWD, is hosting the SOCA meeting and the 36th ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Council Meeting from Nov. 4 to 6, with officials from the 11 ASEAN member states.
Sulit said the meetings provide an opportunity to assess the region’s progress and ensure that cooperation responds to the changing needs of its people.
“This transition offers us an opportunity to build on our achievements, draw lessons from our experiences, and ensure that our cooperation remains responsive to the evolving needs and aspirations of the peoples of ASEAN,” he said.
The discussions will cover the implementation of the ASCC Blueprint 2025 and Strategic Plan, and the development of regional policy priorities.
The Philippines’ 2026 chairship priorities for the ASCC are grouped under RISE: resilient and empowered families; inclusive development; smart youth and innovation; and an environmentally sustainable and food-secure future.
“These reflect our shared aspiration for an ASEAN community that is inclusive, resilient, and firmly centered on the well-being of its people,” Sulit said.
Additionally, SOCA leaders will discuss outcome documents slated for adoption and notation by ASEAN Leaders during the 49th ASEAN Summit scheduled for Nov. 16 to 18.
On Nov. 6, the 36th ASCC Council meeting will launch the ASCC Planning, Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning System, which will strengthen the existing ASEAN Database.
The digital platform is intended to track progress, consolidate baseline studies and provide information for policymaking.
End of ASEAN chairship
As the Philippines comes close to the end of its term as ASEAN chair, Sulit said the country is also preparing to pass the baton to Singapore as the next chair.
In his speech, Sulit credited ASEAN member states, the ASEAN Secretariat and sectoral bodies for supporting the Philippines’ priorities.
“The progress we have made in advancing the RISE priorities of the Philippines is a collective achievement, made possible by our solidarity and willingness to work together toward common goals,” he said.
RISE means Resilient and Empowered Families, Inclusive Development, Smart Youth and Innovations, and an Environmentally Sustainable and Food Secure Future.
Sulit congratulated Singapore and expressed confidence that it would build on the progress made during the Philippine chairship.
“While the chairship may change, our shared commitment to ASEAN cooperation and the well-being of our peoples remain constant,” Sulit said.
The Philippines’ overall ASEAN chairship theme for 2026 is “Navigating our Future, Together.” (PNA)
