Republic of the Philippines
DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
REGIONAL PROSECUTION
OFFICE III
Republic of the Philippines
DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
REGIONAL PROSECUTION
OFFICE III
NEWS & HIGHLIGHTS
FEATURED EVENT
ABOUT THE ASEAN 2026 PHILIPPINE CHAIRSHIP
“NAVIGATING OUR FUTURE, TOGETHER”
The Philippines assumes the ASEAN Chairship in 2026 at a defining moment for the region. Home to nearly 700 million people and the world’s 5th largest economy, ASEAN stands at the crossroads of unprecedented opportunity and evolving global challenges. By 2030, ASEAN is poised to become the 4th largest economy in the world—a powerful testament to the strength of its cooperation, diversity, and shared aspirations.
As Chair, the Philippines embraces this responsibility with resolve and vision. Guided by the theme “Navigating Our Future, Together,” the 2026 Chairship reflects the Philippines’ commitment to leading ASEAN with unity, clarity, and purpose. It is a call to steer our region toward greater resilience, deeper connection, and meaningful change that places our people at the center of progress.
Rooted in ASEAN’s founding values of peace, stability, and inclusive growth, the Philippines' Chairship is shaped by three strategic priorities:
Peace and Security Anchors : Championing peace and regional stability through dialogue, adherence to international law, and strengthened cooperation on emerging and non-traditional security threats.
Prosperity Corridors : Building systemic connections towards a shared prosperity through economic integration, digital transformation, and inclusive and sustainable development that benefits aII ASEAN peoples.
People Empowerment : Empowering ASEAN's people by fostering social inclusion, protecting vulnerable groups, and promoting a sense of shared identity and community.
Together, these priorities serve as our compass—anchoring our decisions, guiding our initiatives, and shaping a future where peace, prosperity, and people are not only aspirations, but enduring foundations of the ASEAN community.
This Chairship also coincides with the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC), a timely opportunity to reaffirm ASEAN’s founding principles and collective vision.
As we confront the future, the Philippines invites all Member States and partners to walk this path not apart, but side by side. Because the only way to truly move forward is by navigating our future, together.
“Together in Motion” is the official theme song for the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits, during the Philippines’ Chairship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 2026. The song embodies the spirit of regional unity, solidarity, cooperation, and shared progress among ASEAN Member States. It highlights the importance of working together toward a peaceful, inclusive, resilient, and prosperous Southeast Asian region, celebrating the strength of collective action and a shared vision for a better future. It reflects the Philippines’ commitment to fostering stronger partnerships, advancing regional collaboration, and keeping ASEAN moving forward—together.
“Seas Unbroken” is a collaborative cinematic music video and cultural tribute commissioned by the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) in support of the Philippines’ 2026 Chairship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The project brings together filmmakers and creative talents from all 11 ASEAN Member States to celebrate the region’s rich cultural diversity, shared heritage, and enduring spirit of unity. Through powerful visuals, music, and storytelling, it highlights the deep connections that transcend geographical boundaries, reflecting ASEAN’s commitment to regional solidarity, cooperation, peace, and collective progress. More than an artistic collaboration, Seas Unbroken serves as a testament to the idea that despite differences in cultures, languages, and traditions, the nations of Southeast Asia remain connected by a shared history and a common vision for a stronger and more united ASEAN community.
The ASEAN Treaty on Extradition was officially signed on November 14, 2025, at the Grand Hyatt Manila in Taguig City, Philippines, during the 13th ASEAN Law Ministers' Meeting (ALAWMM). This landmark agreement represents a significant step toward strengthening legal cooperation and regional collaboration among ASEAN Member States in combating transnational crime. It establishes a framework for facilitating the extradition of individuals accused or convicted of criminal offenses, ensuring that national borders do not become safe havens for fugitives seeking to evade justice. The treaty reflects ASEAN's shared commitment to upholding the rule of law, enhancing mutual trust, promoting regional security, and advancing a more coordinated and effective response to cross-border criminal activities.