Vice President Sara Duterte conveyed a heartfelt message in celebration of ASEAN Day on Thursday, emphasizing the vital role of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in maintaining peace and unity across Southeast Asia through cooperation and solidarity.
"Happy ASEAN Day! Pinapahalagahan natin ang papel ng Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) sa pagpapanatili ng kapayapaan sa Timog-Silangang Asya sa pamamagitan ng pagtutulungan at pagkakaisa," Duterte said in a statement posted on her social media account.
She highlighted the importance of empowering the youth and the collective responsibility of each member country for their safety and welfare.
"Pinapahalagahan din natin ang pagtataguyod ng kahalagahan ng pagbibigay kapangyarihan sa mga kabataan at sa kolektibong responsibilidad ng bawat isa para sa kanilang kaligtasan at kapakanan," she added.
Duterte called for a celebration of ASEAN's ongoing efforts to promote peace, understanding, and unity not only among member countries but also globally.
She also emphasized that ASEAN's initiatives open up numerous opportunities for everyone and provide hope for a more stable future.
"Let us also remember that our support for the youth in ASEAN will pave the way for their success and the success of our aspirations as a united region," she said.
In 2017, Former President Rodrigo Duterte issued Proclamation No. 282 declaring the month of August as “ASEAN Month” to promote awareness about the ASEAN in the Philippines.
