President Marcos to Asean: Rule of law must prevail
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. emphasized the importance of the rule of law and regional cooperation during the 59th anniversary of ASEAN. Amid ongoing maritime tensions with China, he advocated for dialogue and solidarity to maintain stability in the region.
Why it matters
The statement underscores the Philippines' diplomatic strategy in the South China Sea and the broader geopolitical importance of ASEAN unity.
MANILA, Philippines - President Marcos emphasized yesterday the importance of the rule of law and dialogue as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) celebrated its 59th anniversary.
Amid China's aggressions in the West Philippine Sea, this year's ASEAN chairman said vital spaces for dialogue, confidence-building and peaceful engagement have been provided through the mechanisms led by the 11-member regional bloc.
Members of the ASEAN advance cooperation and common purpose through consultation, mutual respect and adherence to international law, Marcos said.
"We celebrate a promise that has endured for nearly six decades: that in our shared region, dialogue must prevail over division, cooperation over conflict and solidarity over uncertainty," Marcos said.
"ASEAN was built on a simple but powerful truth: Our peoples are safer, stronger and more prosperous when our nations face the future together," he added.
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