Inquirer.net. MANILA, Philippines — Several foreign leaders in the Philippines for the three-day 49th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) Summit took time to visit the Manila Cathedral, considered. Discussions are expected to focus on major geopolitical, economic and security challenges affecting Southeast Asia and the wider international. Philippines hosts the 49th Asean Summit on Nov. 15-18, bringing together Southeast Asian leaders and dialogue partners in Manila.