PASAY CITY, Philippines — Regional energy security and food supply challenges driven by the Middle East crisis are expected to anchor discussions as Southeast Asian leaders gather for the 49th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and Related Summits in Manila.
Speaking at a press briefing at the International Media Center on Friday, November 13, ASEAN 2026 Spokesperson and Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary Dominic Xavier Imperial emphasized the need for collective regional action to protect ordinary citizens from ongoing geopolitical and economic uncertainties.
“First, given the situation at the moment, we are still feeling the impacts of the Middle East crisis,” Imperial said. “We should therefore expect additional measures and decisions from our leaders in addressing the energy situation we are facing.”
In addition to energy pressures, food security will take priority during the November 15–17 high-level meetings.
“On top of that, there will also be discussions on food security issues,” Imperial noted. “We should also expect something to come out of the leaders’ discussions on this matter.”
Strengthening Regional Resilience
As Southeast Asian economies navigate external disruptions affecting fuel availability and market stability, the summit aims to foster practical cooperation between ASEAN member states and dialogue partners.
A key component of these energy security talks includes an ongoing feasibility study for a proposed regional oil stockpile, which was initially approved by leaders during their May summit in Cebu.
While preparations are underway, Imperial clarified that the target volume has not yet been finalized.
“On the oil stockpiling proposal, the study is ongoing,” Imperial stated. “The leaders approved the proposal earlier this year during the May summit, with a study to be conducted on oil stockpiling. Preparations and the study are still underway,” he added, noting that specific volume figures remain part of the ongoing assessment.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will chair the three-day summit, which convenes regional leaders and international partners in the capital.