The schedule for the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits will continue as planned, despite U.S. President Donald Trump arriving late on the final day of the event. Dax Imperial, spokesperson for the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), confirmed that the closing ceremony would take place on November 17, regardless of Trump's late arrival and the scheduled ASEAN-US Special Summit occurring that same day.
Imperial assured during a press briefing in Pasay City that all preparations would proceed as planned, emphasizing, "Nothing will be pushed back." He also noted that Trump is set to have a bilateral meeting with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on November 18, following the summit.
Leaders and delegates from various countries are expected to arrive in the Philippines from November 16 to 18, with the official opening ceremony of the ASEAN Summit taking place on November 15. On November 17, President Marcos will also lead the 29th ASEAN Plus Three Summit and the 21st East Asia Summit, where significant topics concerning strategic, political, and economic issues in the region will be discussed.
The closing ceremony, which Marcos will preside over, will include the handover of ASEAN Chairmanship to Singapore, followed by the ASEAN-United States Special Summit attended by Trump.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the schedule for the ASEAN Summit?
The ASEAN Summit will run from November 15 to 18, with the opening ceremony on November 15 and the closing ceremony on November 17.
Will the closing ceremony be affected by Trump's late arrival?
No, the closing ceremony will proceed as planned on November 17 despite Trump's late arrival.
When will President Marcos hold a meeting with Trump?
President Marcos will meet with Trump on November 18, after the ASEAN Summit.
Reporting by Gerald Queen for Rapport Philippines. This report was prepared from available source material and reviewed for factual consistency. Further verified updates will be added as the newsroom receives them.