The Philippines as ASEAN Chair in 2026 will continue to work towards the collective goal of a region that is resilient, innovative and dynamic, with the well-being of our people at the center.

Ambassador Kira Christianne D. Azucena said under the Philippines' chairship, peace and security remain the anchors as ASEAN expands and creates new prosperity corridors through people empowerment. This work will remain grounded on the values central to ASEAN’s spirit: adherence to international law, cooperation, dialogue, inclusivity, mutual respect, sustainability, with ASEAN at the center and fully utilizing ASEAN-led mechanisms.

Ambassador Azucena said this theme is captured in the Philippines’ ASEAN Chair logo that shows a balangay, a 10th century Philippine sea-faring vessel that connected the islands through trade, which represents the essence of the theme: many nations, each unique, moving forward together.

Ambassador Azucena joined Hon. Nicola Grigg, Minister of State for Trade and Investment, Minister for Women, Associate Minister of Agriculture (Horticulture), Associate Minister for ACC, and Member of Parliament for Selwyn since 2020; as well as Dr. C Kennedy, Chief Growth Officer at Creative HQ; and Natasha Watzdorf, Specialist Advisor Technical and Regulatory, Meat Industry Association, to discuss New Zealand business opportunities in ASEAN as well as the Philippines’ Chairship.