Malacañang confirmed Wednesday, Oct. 14, that US President Donald J. Trump will visit the Philippines to attend the 49th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in November, marking his first trip to Manila since 2017.
Palace Press Officer and Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Claire Castro confirmed the upcoming visit during a press briefing but said further details would have to come from other government officials.
“It is confirmed. Pero ’yung details siguro hindi po sa akin manggagaling,” Castro said.
The Philippines will host the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Meetings from Nov. 16 to 18 in Metro Manila, bringing together Southeast Asian leaders and international partners for discussions on regional cooperation, economic relations, and security concerns. President Bongbong Marcos will preside over the gathering as the Philippines holds the ASEAN chairmanship for 2026.
Trump’s attendance follows earlier reports that the White House was preparing for his participation in the summit. Washington had reportedly been discussing a possible Manila visit, potentially accompanied by First Lady Melania Trump.
The US president previously visited Manila in November 2017 for ASEAN-related meetings during his first administration. He also attended the ASEAN gathering in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in 2025.
Trump’s return comes as the Philippines and the United States continue their longstanding defense alliance and diplomatic cooperation. During Marcos’ visit to Washington in 2025, Philippine officials identified economic cooperation, defense, security, and trade as major subjects of discussion between the two governments.
The Palace has yet to announce Trump’s complete itinerary, scheduled bilateral meetings, or specific engagements during his visit.
