The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) is strengthening the country's preparedness through the new Joint Task Group on Emergency Preparedness and Response to ensure safe and orderly activities for ASEAN 2026, of which the Philippines is the current chair.
Meetings and cultural activities of ASEAN will be held in various parts of the country such as Manila, Cebu, Bohol, Boracay, Laoag, Iloilo, and Tagaytay, while world leaders are also expected to attend high-level summits.
As the lead agency, the OCD coordinates with the PNP, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and Bureau of Fire Protection, along with the Philippine Coast Guard, Department of Health, and Department of Information and Communications Technology for adequate resources, manpower, and coordinated response.
Preparations cover natural hazards such as earthquakes and typhoons, as well as human-induced hazards such as civil disturbance. medical resources have also been deployed and medical protocols have been clearly defined, which are being tested through simulations and exercises.
Despite the challenges, the OCD ensured strong coordination with local government units and national agencies. The 48th ASEAN Summit was set in Mactan, Cebu on May 8–9, and the 49th ASEAN Summit in Manila on November 10–12, 2026, as evidence of the country's thorough preparations.
