Philippines, as ASEAN Chair, to Facilitate Continued Progress and Endeavor to Conclude South China Sea COC in 2026
Cebu, Philippines, January 29, 2026 / TRAVELINDEX / ASEAN Spokesperson for ASEAN Matters Dominic Xavier Imperial confirmed on 27 January 2026 that discussions on the Code of Conduct (COC) in the South China Sea will be among the key items to be taken up during the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Retreat (AMM Retreat) on 29 January 2026 at Nustar Hotel, Cebu.
Speaking during a press briefing at the International Media Center (IMC) in Bai Hotel, Cebu, Imperial said that while it is difficult at this stage to pre-empt the full scope of discussions and outcomes of the Retreat, the COC will definitely be discussed by ASEAN Foreign Ministers.
Imperial noted that as ASEAN Chair for 2026, the Philippines is in a strong position to help sustain momentum in the negotiations by facilitating dialogue, encouraging more meetings, and creating opportunities to advance discussions toward a timely conclusion.
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), led by Ma. Theresa Lazaro is welcoming ASEAN Foreign Ministers and their delegations to Cebu for the Retreat, which marks the first meeting of ASEAN Foreign Ministers under the Philippines’ 2026 ASEAN Chairship.
Imperial underscored that it is important to highlight the shared commitment of all parties involved in the negotiations, noting that both ASEAN Member States and China remain on board in working toward a conclusion of the COC.
He added that all parties remain committed to endeavoring to conclude the COC negotiations within the agreed 2026 timeline, consistent with the guidelines and frameworks previously set by ASEAN.
Guided by the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairship theme, “Navigating Our Future, Together,” the AMM Retreat will also provide an opportunity for Ministers to discuss ASEAN’s priorities for 2026, follow up on the outcomes of the 47th ASEAN Summit held in Kuala Lumpur in October 2025, and exchange views on key regional and global developments affecting the region.