“I am especially pleased that our young people are here not simply to witness our discussion, but to help shape the direction of our region,” President Bongbong Marcos said on Sunday during the Association of Southeast Asian Nations leaders’ dialogue with youth representatives.
President Marcos urged regional leaders to move past summit talk and provide real opportunities, inclusive institutions, and safe communities for the next generation. Young people need active roles in shaping the future instead of remaining spectators in discussions affecting their lives, according to the President.
President Marcos Urges Real Opportunities for ASEAN Youth
During the dialogue, President Marcos acknowledged that young people contribute heavily by building businesses, developing new technologies, and serving communities. However, he said that many still face barriers when trying to access financing, education, and employment.
Just arrived in Manila for the 49th ASEAN Summit! In a changing world, ASEAN must stay united and work more closely together. We will discuss ways to deepen economic integration and create new opportunities for our people. pic.twitter.com/XOreOFds6e
“In an age of rapid technological change, economic uncertainty, and persistent threats to peace, young people need more than words of encouragement,” President Marcos said. He added that youth confront insecurity, exclusion, and harmful online environments while trying to build resilient, inclusive communities.
Did You Know? President Marcos spoke directly with youth representatives at an official ASEAN leaders’ dialogue on November 15, 2026, where he invited regional leaders to listen carefully with open minds and a shared sense of purpose.
Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today joined ASEAN Leaders in their Interface with Representatives of ASEAN Youth, held on the sidelines of the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits in Manila, the Philippines. During the Interface, Youth Representatives from all… pic.twitter.com/QsK1nNm5fD
“To our youth representatives, I encourage you to speak with confidence in the value of your ideas. To my fellow leaders, I invite you to listen carefully with open minds and a shared sense of purpose,” President Bongbong Marcos said.
PIA officials urge responsible technology use
Philippine Information Agency officials also emphasized youth development during an ASEAN multi-sectoral forum in Cagayan de Oro City on October 29, 2026. Philippine Information Agency Director-General and Undersecretary Katherine Chloe S. De Castro urged young people to think critically, recognize misinformation, and use technology responsibly.
A productive day at the ASEAN Summit in Manila! Good to catch up with fellow Leaders on digital connectivity, cross-border payments, energy security and AI. We also discussed regional challenges, including Myanmar and transboundary haze. pic.twitter.com/8uEdg6JPcX
De Castro said that artificial intelligence and digital platforms expose youth to online scams, privacy risks, and misinformation. Philippine Information Agency Assistant Director-General Medardo C. Abad Jr. added that regional economic initiatives such as the ASEAN Free Trade Area help member states strengthen trade and address cross-border challenges like human trafficking and labor migration.
Youth Leaders Draft Digital Democracy Policy Recommendations
Ahead of broader regional discussions, around 200 youth leaders and changemakers gathered at the Quezon City M.I.C.E. Center from October 22 to 24, 2026, for the ASEAN Youth Conference. Delegates developed the ASEAN Youth Digital Democracy Declaration 2026 to push for inclusive policies across the political-security, socio-cultural, and economic pillars.
“The value of a declaration lies not only in the words it contains, but also in the conversations it encourages, the partnerships it helps initiate, and the actions it may inspire beyond this gathering,” said Lee Troy Calimlim, Project Head of AYC 2026 and Country Director of AYO Philippines. Proposals from the conference included digital literacy programs, AI governance frameworks, and community enterprise hubs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific challenges do young people face in the region?
President Marcos said that youth face obstacles in accessing financing, education, and employment, alongside insecurity, exclusion, and harmful online environments.
What policy recommendations did youth leaders produce in Quezon City?
Delegates at the ASEAN Youth Conference developed the ASEAN Youth Digital Democracy Declaration 2026, proposing digital literacy programs, AI governance frameworks, and community learning hubs.
How do PIA officials suggest youth handle digital platforms?
Philippine Information Agency Director-General and Undersecretary Katherine Chloe S. De Castro urged young people to think critically, make informed choices, and recognize misinformation when using artificial intelligence and digital tools.
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