PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte on Sunday called on all members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations to respect the rule of law as the Philippines took over as chairman of the group that was formed in 1967.
“I call on all Asean members to rededicate themselves and commit anew to our adherence to the rule of law,” Duterte said in a speech at the SMX Convention Center in Davao City.
“Now, more than ever, it is Asean’s spirit of community that will enable us to overcome the challenges that we face as a region.”
“I call on Asean’s Dialogue Partners to be unwavering in your support for the Asean’s continued development and for its important role in the region’s security, stability and growth.
“I also call on Asean’s Dialogue Partners to renew their dedication to the valued purposes and principles stated in the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation.
“Now, more than ever, it is a time for real change through constructive engagements. We are in this journey together.”
Those who attended the event were the representatives of the Asean members, former President Fidel V. Ramos, former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, members of the diplomatic corps, House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez, Foreign Affairs Secretary Perfecto Yasay Jr., members of the Cabinet, Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea and members of the Senate and House of Representatives.
Duterte said that he had the pleasure of visiting other Asean countries where the warmth of the reception and the undeniable connections encountered spoke well of the inroads they had achieved since 1967.
He said the members recognized the need to ensure peaceful and progressive national development.
“We expressed our shared determination to ensure stability and security from external interference in any form or manifestation in order to preserve our national identities. Fifty years hence, we see ourselves much changed for the better,” Duterte said.