ASEAN

Several Southeast Asian countries are introducing or maintaining tourism taxes in 2026 to fund sustainable practices and infrastructure. Thailand will levy a 300-baht entry fee on foreign visitors starting February, while Bali requires a one-time IDR 150,000 payment. Malaysia applies a nightly room tax, and Vietnam has no specific entry fee but ongoing tax discussions.

February 17, 2026 An Ruwaito ta hanyar AI

South Korea has expressed support for the Philippines' hosting of the ASEAN Summit this year and its desire to boost ties with the region. Representatives from both countries discussed strengthening relations and expanding investments. They reaffirmed their commitment to bilateral ties ahead of the 77th anniversary of diplomatic relations in March.

Foreign Secretary Theresa Lazaro met Myanmar's Senior General Min Aung Hlaing in Nay Pyi Taw on January 6 to discuss the political situation, controversial elections, and a stalled regional peace plan. This marked her first official visit as ASEAN chair amid ongoing violence in Myanmar. The trip forms part of the Philippines' efforts to implement the Five-Point Consensus.

December 30, 2025 An Ruwaito ta hanyar AI

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has invited Jessica Sanchez, the grand winner of America’s Got Talent 2025, to perform at the upcoming ASEAN Summit hosted by the Philippines. This comes as world leaders expect high-level performances from the country. Sanchez paid a courtesy call on Marcos ahead of her New Year’s Eve performance.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. held a phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on November 28, agreeing to enhance cooperation in key areas. The leaders discussed strengthening Philippines-Ukraine relations amid Manila's upcoming ASEAN chairmanship in 2026. Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for Philippine support on Ukraine's sovereignty.

November 25, 2025 An Ruwaito ta hanyar AI

South Korea will join the ASEAN+3 Finance and Central Bank Deputies' Meeting in Hong Kong this week to discuss ways to strengthen financial cooperation. The two-day event, starting Wednesday, will include vice finance ministers from South Korea, China, Japan, and ASEAN nations. South Korea's delegation will be led by Deputy Finance Minister Choi Ji-young.