The Philippines entered the ASEAN summit in Cebu looking to shape the bloc's agenda. What emerged instead was a reminder of how little room Manila has when the bloc’s biggest crises remain unresolved.
Leaders discussed rising energy concerns, maritime security tensions, Myanmar’s unresolved conflict, and the dispute between Thailand and Cambodia. Despite the discussions, the summit produced no major breakthroughs. In the end, it only highlighted the immense challenges Manila will face for the rest of its ASEAN chairship.
Energy Security Moves to the Front
The Middle East crisis pushed energy security to the center of the summit. Its impact on markets and regional economies forced ASEAN leaders to move beyond routine statements and discuss how the region could protect itself from future shocks.
ASEAN leaders revisited the Philippine-backed idea of building regional oil and petroleum reserves, but they did not agree on a plan. Instead, they asked
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