H.E. Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN, today received H.E. Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro, Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Philippines, at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat for a high-level bilateral meeting and the ceremonial handover of the Philippines’ commemorative Chairship sculpture.
Upon her arrival, Secretary Lazaro was received by Secretary-General Dr. Kao, the Committee of Permanent Representatives (CPRs), and the Deputy Secretaries-General of ASEAN. Following a commemorative photo session at the ASEAN Emblem, the principals proceeded to the ASEAN Gallery for a significant cultural ceremony.
The highlight of the visit was the “Handover of the Chairship Sculpture,” a gift presented by the Republic of the Philippines to the ASEAN Secretariat. During the handover, Secretary Lazaro delivered her remarks on the inspiration and symbolism of the artwork, which serves as a tribute to the Philippines’ Chairship and leadership of ASEAN in 2026 and its enduring commitment to regional unity. Secretary-General Dr. Kao expressed his appreciation for the gift, which will be permanently housed in the ASEAN Gallery.
Following the ceremony, Secretary-General Dr. Kao and Secretary Lazaro held a bilateral meeting to discuss strategic priorities and strengthen cooperation between the Philippines and the ASEAN Secretariat. The Meeting discussed the Philippines’ priorities during its Chairship in 2026 amidst the global turmoil and energy crisis, as well as a range of key ASEAN issues in advancing the ASEAN Community building agenda.
The visit concluded with a photo session at the Philippines Chairship Emblem in the lobby, where Secretary Lazaro also met with staff members from the Philippines currently serving at the ASEAN Secretariat.
Read the full SG’s remarks: https://asean.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/SG-Dr.-Kao-Appreciation-Remarks-at-the-Unveiling-of-the-Sculpture-Vitality-2026-22-April-2026-As-Delivered.pdf
