MANILA – President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. said he was honored to be with his fellow leaders in Southeast Asia as this proved their unwavering commitment to sustaining the progress and prosperity of their respective countries.
Philippine Airlines Flight PR001 arrived in Manila at 5:58 p.m. on Thursday, May 11.
As he concluded his three-day visit to Indonesia, the President said he and his fellow leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) were able to address the challenges posed by an aging population by ensuring that the region’s elders continue to live safe, dignified, and productive lives.
During the Plenary Session of the 42nd ASEAN Summit, Marcos emphasized the importance of transitioning to renewable energy, upholding international law and free trade, and ensuring developed nations fulfill their Paris Agreement commitments.
The President also urged his fellow leaders to support Timor-Leste’s journey towards full ASEAN membership.
Marcos also stressed the significance of inter-parliamentary cooperation in creating a rules-based and people-focused ASEAN. He also showcased the efforts of the Filipino youth in tackling climate change and increasing resilience to disasters.
“Our meeting with the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly and the ASEAN Youth is a welcome engagement, recognizing their indispensable role in ensuring a just and prosperous region,” he said.
In addition to the meetings, President Marcos held bilateral meetings with the prime ministers of Laos, Vietnam, and Timor Leste. In those meetings, the President pushed to enhance cooperation in various areas such as agriculture, defense, health, people-to-people exchanges, tourism, and trade and investment.
Marcos also joined his fellow leaders on a cruise to admire the view that Labuan Bajo had to offer after a day of “productive” meetings.
“For a little while after a productive day, we shifted away from discussions on affairs of state and renewed our friendships with fellow ASEAN leaders. What a wonderful break!” he said.
Meanwhile, with the absence of a representative from Myanmar, 10 leaders from the region took part in the commemorative family photo, which President Marcos said captured their friendship and resolve.
“We joined the commemorative ASEAN family photo, which captures the friendships between our countries, the spirit of our shared aspirations, and the strength of our common resolve,” he said.
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