As Philippines battles fuel crisis, will Marcos postpone Asean summit?

Leaders in the Philippine Senate have backed calls to study the postponement option, originally proposed by ex-finance secretary Gary Teves to cut government spending and redirect funds towards cushioning the impact of skyrocketing fuel rates.

“The times call for such a possible move,” Senate President Vicente Sotto III said on Monday, adding that Marcos could look into the measure.

In December, Congress approved 17.5 billion pesos (US$290 million) for the hosting of Asean events and other related meetings in 2026 after the Philippines took over the reins from Malaysia.

Manila has been hosting foreign ministers’ retreats since January, with the 48th Asean Leaders’ Summit set to take place in Cebu in May, while the 49th summit will occur in November.