January 12-14, 2026 | Manila – UCLG ASPAC, serves as the Secretariat of the ASEAN Governors and Mayors Forum (AGMF), is pleased to announce that Manila City will host the important AGMF and the Meeting of the Governors/Mayors of ASEAN Capitals (MGMAC) in September 2026. This announcement marks a significant stride in empowering local and regional governments as the primary drivers of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045.
The confirmation was secured during a high-level strategic visit to Manila from January 12-14, 2026, led by UCLG ASPAC President, Governor Dakila Carlo E. Cua, and UCLG ASPAC Secretary General, Dr. Bernadia Irawati Tjandradewi. The visit engaged with key national and local stakeholders to forge a collaborative framework for the 2026 events, reinforcing the indispensable role of cities in translating regional aspirations into tangible local action.
Forging a Landmark Partnership in Manila
A cornerstone of the visit was a productive meeting with the Manila City Government, led by Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso. Mayor Domagoso extended the city’s full commitment to hosting a premier regional gathering, with preliminary plans identifying the iconic Manila Hotel as the prospective venue.
“Manila is honoured and ready to welcome our fellow leaders from across ASEAN,” stated Mayor Domagoso. “The Forum is more than a meeting; it is a catalyst for actionable cooperation. We are committed not only to facilitating productive discussions but also to creating a lasting legacy for the event.”
This legacy is envisioned to include a commemorative landmark at Mohen Garden and a potential tree-planting initiative, symbolising sustainable growth. Delegates will also be invited to observe Manila’s innovative urban development firsthand through a site visit to a major housing project, showcasing practical solutions to shared urban challenges.
Aligning Local Action with the ASEAN Vision 2045
The visit’s strategic impact was further amplified through high-level discussions with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) of the Philippines. The meeting was held with the Undersecretary Mr. Marlo L. Iringan and Undersecretary Mr. Francisco R. Cruz.
It was also discussed that the AGMF/MGMAC 2026 will directly contribute to the strategic objective of localising the ASEAN Community Vision 2045. The forum will provide a critical platform for governors and mayors to shape policies, share transformative practices, and forge partnerships that anchor the region’s sustainable development ambitions at the local level.
A Foundation for Impactful Collaboration
The successful Manila visit has established a robust foundation for the 2026 forum, positioning it as a milestone event for subnational diplomacy and city-to-city cooperation and learning in ASEAN. UCLG ASPAC extends its gratitude to the Government of the Philippines, the DILG, and the Manila City Government for their steadfast partnership and shared vision.
We eagerly anticipate collaborating with all members and partners to orchestrate an impactful, memorable, and results-oriented forum in Manila—one that will decisively advance the leadership of local governments in building a more inclusive, resilient, and prosperous ASEAN community.
