Manila, May 27 -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. called on Southeast Asian and Gulf leaders to ensure freedom of navigation and uninterrupted trade in the South China Sea and Arabian Sea, calling the key bodies of water as "lifelines" to regional and international commerce.

Speaking before fellow heads of state from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) on Tuesday in Kuala Lumpur, Marcos underscored the strategic importance of both seas as vital arteries for global commerce.

"The South China Sea and the Arabian Sea cover vital sea lanes that serve as lifelines to regional and international commerce both in our regions," the President said at the 2nd ASEAN-GCC Summit.

Amid rising te...