SINGAPORE, 13 April 2026 – Philippine Ambassador to Singapore H.E. Medardo Antonio G. Macaraig served as Guest-of-Honor at the Closing Ceremony of the Youth Model ASEAN Conference (YMAC) 2026 held on 10 April 2026 at the Singapore Polytechnic Convention Centre. 

In his remarks, Ambassador Macaraig underscored the importance of “Strengthening ASEAN” amid an increasingly complex global landscape, highlighting the continued relevance of ASEAN centrality in fostering regional stability, dialogue, and cooperation. He emphasized that a cohesive, responsive, and future-ready ASEAN is essential to effectively address shared challenges, including geopolitical uncertainties, economic transformation, and climate change.

The Ambassador likewise underscored the vital role of ASEAN’s youth as catalysts for innovation, inclusive growth, and regional integration. 

Following his remarks was a dialogue session where the Ambassador emphasized the importance of youth participation in shaping ASEAN’s future, encouraging delegates to remain actively engaged in regional discourse and cooperation. Drawing from his over 40-year career in public service and diplomacy, he also shared practical insights on leadership, consensus-building, and the value of perseverance in advancing national and regional interests.

Joining Ambassador Macaraig in this session were Ms. Cindy Chng, Associate Director and Head of Strategic Partnerships, MSD Singapore, Malaysia and Brunei and Professor Jason Lee, Director, Heat Resilience and Performance Centre, NUS Medicine and Chair, WHO-WMO Global Heat Health Information Network South East Asia Hub at the NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine.

YMAC 2026 brought together approximately 160 youth delegates from Singapore and across ASEAN, alongside student organizers and invited guests, to engage in a five-day conference simulating an ASEAN Summit. Now in its 14th year, the conference continues to serve as a valuable platform for youth engagement, supported by Singapore’s Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth and the National Youth Council. (END)