MAY 6-8 DECLARED SPECIAL NON-WORKING DAYS IN LAPU-LAPU, CORDOVA FOR ASEAN 2026

Malacañang has declared May 6 to 8, 2026 as special non-working days in Lapu-Lapu City and Cordova, Cebu to ensure the smooth and secure hosting of the ASEAN Summit. The proclamation aims to reduce traffic congestion and enhance safety as hundreds of foreign dignitaries, including heads of state and business leaders, attend the event on May 7 and 8. Authorities will deploy over 7,300 personnel for security operations, including convoy protection, air and coastal monitoring, and emergency response. Delegates are expected to arrive starting May 5 and depart until May 12, with road closures and heightened security measures anticipated. The Philippines, hosting ASEAN 2026 under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., will focus on regional security, economic integration, and policy coordination while shifting many preparatory meetings online to manage costs.