President Prabowo attends the 48th ASEAN Summit Retreat in Cebu 

JAKARTA - President Prabowo Subianto attended the 48th ASEAN Summit retreat session which took place in Cebu, Philippines, as part of the 48th ASEAN Summit series of events.

Reported by ANTARA, Friday, May 8, President Prabowo Subianto arrived at the retreat venue by driving the state car MV3 Garuda Limousine or Maung Garuda in white.

The domestically produced SUV-limousine type vehicle was conspicuous among the black sedans used by other heads of state and heads of government participating in the summit.

The president appeared in a uniform suit with the heads of other participating countries, but wore a black turban and sunglasses when he got out of the vehicle.

Upon arrival at the location, President Prabowo was immediately greeted by the leaders of ASEAN member countries who had been waiting to start the formal agenda. The protocol procession began with the preparation of a joint photo session involving all Southeast Asian leaders as a symbol of togetherness.

In the official procession, the leaders of the countries also carried out the "ASEAN Handshake" or the typical ASEAN handshake by crossing their hands. This tradition is carried out simultaneously as a form of affirmation of regional solidarity in the midst of various geopolitical dynamics that are developing in the region and globally.

The retreat session was then continued with the delivery of the opening statement by the President of the Philippines Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr. as the host of the 48th ASEAN Summit. In his speech, President Marcos Jr. outlined the various heavy challenges currently hitting the region, ranging from uncertainty in the world situation to disruptions in global supply chains.

Ferdinand Marcos Jr. also highlighted the real impact of the ongoing global conflict on the economic stability and quality of life of people in Southeast Asia. He emphasized the need for concrete steps in dealing with the rivalry of major world powers as well as strengthening resource security through the ASEAN 2045 vision.