Manila readies the 49th ASEAN Summit at the Philippine International Convention Center from 15 November

21 October 2026

Executive Secretary Ralph Recto, who chairs the ASEAN National Organizing Council, presided over a command conference on preparations for the 49th Association of Southeast Asian Nations Summit and Related Summits. The meetings open on 15 November at the Philippine International Convention Center, and the country is preparing to host 20 heads of state and government along with thousands of delegates and business leaders. Recto said nearly all items on the preparation checklist have been completed and that preparations remain time on target. Among the expected economic deliverables is the substantial conclusion of negotiations for the ASEAN-Canada Free Trade Agreement. ASEAN member states are also expected to sign the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement, which seeks common rules for digital trade and cross-border data flows.