MANILA: Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr (pic) has expressed his intent to promote the Philippines "as it is” when the country chairs Asean in 2026, the Philippine News Agency reported.
Marcos said there was no need to prove the Philippines’ worth to its South-East Asian neighbours, stressing that the focus should be on showing what the country is capable of.
"I want them to see the Philippines as it is. I’m so proud of the Philippines. It doesn’t need - the expression in English is ‘gilding the lily.’ You’re making it even more beautiful, it’s already beautiful,” he said in part four of the BBM Podcast’s third episode.
He expressed confidence that Asean member states already recognised the "beauty of the Philippines,” particularly the hard work and kindness of its people.
Marcos said his administration was working to strengthen foreign relations with other countries.
"What I really want to show is that the Philippines has now come together. A kind of social pact with each other that we will help each other because we are going in the right direction. And that’s the most important thing,” he said.
In his message marking the 58th founding anniversary of Asean, Marcos pledged to build on the bloc’s legacy in addressing evolving priorities and emerging challenges, as the Philippines prepares to assume the chairmanship next year. - Bernama
