October 10, 2025 | UCLG ASPAC, as the Secretariat of The ASEAN Governors and Mayors Forum (AGMF), represented by Secretary General of UCLG ASPAC, Dr. Bernadia Irawati Tjandradewi, paid a courtesy visit to H.E. Ambassador Evangeline T. Ong Jimenez-Ducrocq, Permanent Representative of the Republic of the Philippines to ASEAN. This visit marked the beginning of a series of engagements leading up to AGMF 2026, which will be held in Manila, under the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairmanship. AGMF remains committed to its mission: strengthening the collaboration among local governments and enhancing their engagement within the ASEAN framework.
Dr. Bernadia highlighted the foundation laid by AGMF since its inception in 2011, up to the most recent forum held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in August 2025, showcasing its milestones and achievements in carrying out the mission. She also shed some light on AGMF’s ongoing efforts to align local government priorities with ASEAN’s regional development agenda, particularly in support of the localisation of the ASEAN Community Vision (ACV) 2045.
H.E. Ambassador Evangeline T. Ong Jimenez-Ducrocq expressed her strong support for AGMF, applauding its continued commitment to strengthening local capacity and fostering meaningful dialogue among local leaders. She reaffirmed the Philippines’ full support for the upcoming AGMF 2026 and its dedication to enhancing the role of local governments within ASEAN’s regional agenda. As the AGMF Secretariat prepares for the 2026 meeting, we welcome support from partners and members, particularly from the Southeast Asia sub-region, to strengthen collaboration among local governments and enhance their engagement with ASEAN institutions, collectively drive sustainable, resilient, and inclusive regional development.
