Brunei’s Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah flew his own aircraft to Cebu for the ASEAN Summit 2026.

The monarch, a licensed pilot, personally piloted the plane and landed on Wednesday evening, May 7, at the Mactan–Benito N. Ebuen Air Base.

The Sultan often takes the controls when travelling for official events. He was accompanied by his son, Prince Abdul Mateen.

The Sultan is set to attend the 48th ASEAN Summit and Related Meetings, which will run from May 7–8.

Upon their arrival, Bolkiah and his son were welcomed by Philippines Department of Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rex Gatchalian, Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro, and Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Cynthia King-Chan.

Cebu has been chosen as the venue of the 48th ASEAN Summit, with the Philippines serving as chair, with key events held in Mactan, Lapu-Lapu City.

All leaders from the ASEAN member states are expected to attend the summit, except for Myanmar, which will be represented by its permanent secretary of foreign affairs.

Source: Inquirer/CNA