Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Ma. Cynthia “Cindi” King-Chan expressed pride and gratitude following the successful hosting of the 48th ASEAN Leaders’ Summit and Related Meetings in Cebu from May 7 to 8.
In a statement, King-Chan said the international gathering highlighted Lapu-Lapu City’s capacity to serve as a destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE).
Guided by the theme “Navigating Our Future, Together,” the summit was held under the Philippines’ chairmanship and brought together regional leaders and delegates in Cebu.
The mayor said hosting both the ASEAN Tourism Forum and the ASEAN Leaders’ Summit further strengthened the city’s position in international diplomacy and economic engagement.
“This is a legacy that will generate opportunities and prosperity for generations of Oponganons to come,” King-Chan said.
She thanked the National Organizing Council and the Cebu Organizing Committee for coordination efforts, along with the Lapu-Lapu City Technical Working Group, department heads, and city employees who worked on preparations and implementation.
King-Chan also expressed appreciation to President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos for choosing Lapu-Lapu City as one of the summit venues.
She likewise acknowledged Megaworld Corporation for providing a venue that hosted key summit activities.
Security forces, traffic enforcers, tourism stakeholders, and media partners were also cited for helping ensure the smooth conduct of the international event.
The mayor highlighted cultural performances by the Lapu-Lapu Arnis De Abanico and the Lapu-Lapu City Performing Arts, saying these showcased local heritage to international delegates.
She also thanked Vice Mayor Celedonio “Celsi” Sitoy, Congressman Junard “Ahong” Chan, barangay officials, and residents for their cooperation throughout the summit period.
“This once-in-a-decade gathering required patience, understanding, and cooperation from everyone. Our people showed the warmth and hospitality that Oponganons are known for,” she said.
King-Chan added that unity and collaboration remain essential in sustaining the city’s progress.
During the summit, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. described Cebu as a fitting host, citing its long history as a trading hub and cultural crossroads in Southeast Asia.
He also recalled Cebu’s role in previous ASEAN milestones, including the 2006 gathering that helped pave the way for the ASEAN Charter.
Marcos said the Cebu hosting underscores the province’s continued relevance in regional cooperation amid global challenges such as supply chain disruptions and security concerns. (VCL)
Photo courtesy of Cindi King-Chan / Facebook
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