Singapore and the Philippines vow to ensure a smooth transition as Singapore takes over the ASEAN chairmanship from the Philippines in 2027, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong says. Wong makes the statement after meeting with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. during Marcos’ working visit to Singapore from July 14 to 16. The meeting is Marcos’ fourth visit to Singapore as president, according to the reports. Wong says both countries will work to strengthen ASEAN’s unity and resilience in an environment marked by greater uncertainty. The two leaders also reaffirm the broader partnership between their countries. Singapore is described as one of the Philippines’ largest foreign investors, indicating close economic ties alongside the diplomatic coordination on ASEAN leadership. The reports present the transition as a planned handover between the two governments within ASEAN’s rotating chairmanship framework, with both sides emphasizing continuity and cooperation ahead of the 2027 schedule.