The 48th ASEAN Summit, hosting over 20,000 delegates from 11 member-countries, convenes in Cebu, Philippines, from May 6 to 8, 2026. Amidst a global oil crisis triggered by Middle East conflicts, experts urge leaders to prioritize energy resiliency through regional diversification and sustainable infrastructure. Nathaniel Chua of the Cebu Electricity Rights Advocates emphasized that Cebu’s annual demand growth of 150 megawatts necessitates local power development to survive disasters like Typhoon Odette. Furthermore, UP Cebu lecturer Neil Lorenzo Diola highlighted that regional energy integration is vital to mitigate vulnerabilities linked to the Strait of Hormuz. As ministers gather for the May 8 plenary, discussions will center on securing energy supplies, stabilizing food prices, and fostering investments to ensure long-term economic stability across Southeast Asia.