Manila, Nov. 12 -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday called on the public to remain patient and cooperative as the Philippines hosts the 49th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and Related Summits, assuring that the temporary inconveniences would be outweighed by the opportunities and benefits the gathering is expected to bring.

In a video message, Marcos underscored the importance of regional cooperation in addressing shared challenges, including rising prices of basic commodities and oil, economic slowdowns, and security concerns.

"Marami sa mga problemang ito ay hindi natin kayang solusyunan na mag-isa, kaya't napakahalaga ng ASEAN. Ito ang pagkakataon para sa mga bansa sa ating rehiyon na mag-usap, mag...