Legarda underscores significance of unity in ASEAN to region’s progress

In commemoration of ASEAN Month this August, Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda asserted the importance of a united front in Southeast Asia for the common progress of all nations in the region.

Legarda said that the ten member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) must work together not just in terms of regional security, peace, and order but also in ensuring that collective action on environmental protection is taken, in furtherance of our regional pursuit to attain a circular economy and sustainable development.

“The Southeast Asian region must remain vigilant against the looming threat posed by differing geopolitics and ensure stability so that the over 600 million residents in the area can live in peace and harmony,” she said.

“As one of the major players in the world’s economic scene, it is vital that progress shall be achieved in the future through a green economy so that future generations can reap our benefits with minimal interruption from climate change,” she added.

For being a significant contributor to the cause of preserving biodiversity, Legarda was recognized as an ASEAN Biodiversity Hero in 2022.

Legarda asserted that improving the policy environment will transition the country into a blue economy that is sustainable and climate resilient.

The four-term lawmaker also hopes that the ASEAN residents can partake in economic growth through livelihood.

“More jobs mean more money for all, and I call on all ASEAN member nations to not leave any of its residents behind in hoping for a better future for themselves and their loved ones,” stated Legarda.

“Economic confidence of its residents will result in massive payoffs in the region through foreign investments, which will lead again to prosperity, but with it comes responsibility in maintaining a healthy habitat for all,” she closed.

The ASEAN, composed of Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, was founded in 1967 in Bangkok, Thailand.

It was formed to promote the economic, social, and cultural development of the region through cooperative programs, to safeguard political and economic stability, and to serve as a forum for the resolution of intra-regional differences.

Originally an ASEAN Week established through Proclamation No. 1008 (S. 1997), Proclamation no. 282, s. 2017 expanded the celebration for the entire month. (End)