MANILA, Philippines — Executive Secretary Ralph Recto led an inspection of the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) on Friday, November 6, to check logistical preparations and ensure directives from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. are strictly met ahead of the upcoming Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Leaders’ Summit.
The Philippines is preparing to welcome over 20 global leaders and numerous delegates for the high-level regional gathering scheduled from November 15 to 17.
Recto, who heads the ASEAN National Organizing Council, conducted a walkthrough alongside ASEAN Office of the Director-General for Operations Director-General Hellen Dela Vega and Office of the Executive Secretary Undersecretary Roy Cervantes.
They were joined by several key Cabinet officials and organizing council members, including Trade Secretary Christina Roque, Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, and Information and Communications Technology Secretary Robert de Claro. Budget Secretary Kim De Leon and Communications Secretary Lino Cayetano were also present during the inspection.
The Office of the Executive Secretary emphasized that the preparations reflect a unified, whole-of-government approach, with multiple agencies collaborating throughout the year to support the country’s ASEAN chairship.
Following the walkthrough, Recto expressed gratitude to the organizing team for their tireless behind-the-scenes work and encouraged them to maintain momentum as the summit approaches.
According to the Office of the Executive Secretary, the country still has roughly 100 meetings left to oversee under its current ASEAN chairship.