Philippines hosts ASEAN-Plus Defence Ministers’ Meeting in Cebu

The 13th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) is scheduled to take place in Cebu, Philippines, from October 28 to 29. The forum brings together the 11 ASEAN member states and eight dialogue partners, including India, the United States, China, Russia, Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand, to discuss regional and international security challenges.

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will lead his country's delegation to the meeting. He is expected to participate in a session regarding the exchange of views on security issues and hold bilateral talks with counterparts to review existing defence cooperation and explore new strategic partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region.

In preparation for the event, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has raised its security alert status to heightened. General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has mobilized 3,670 personnel from various government agencies to secure conference venues, billeting areas, and convoy routes. While authorities stated there are no imminent threats, security measures will remain in effect until November 1 to ensure the safety of all delegates.