DFA Lauds ASEAN’s Contributions to National, Regional Development at the 51st ASEAN Day
Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan peter S. Cayetano and Embassy officials from ASEAN member states perform the traditional ASEAN handshake during the 51st ASEAN Day Reception of the Department of Foreign Affairs on 10 August 2018. (DFA photo)
With the theme “Resilience and Innovation,” the Department of Foreign Affairs commemorated the 51st anniversary of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) through two separate activities—a diplomatic reception on August 10, and an institutional program on ASEAN Day during the DFA flag-raising ceremony on August 13.
The two activities highlighted how ASEAN evolved into an inter-governmental organization that has endured the test of time and external challenges through unity and cooperation, and adherence to the principles of consultation, consensus, respect and non-interference in internal affairs.
In his keynote address at the 51st ASEAN Day Reception, Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter S. Cayetano said that ASEAN member states, in the 51 years of engaging one another has learned to “love” and take care of each other as they love themselves, despite differences in religions and political systems.
According to Secretary Cayetano, ASEAN consensus has been successful in bringing ASEAN member states closer together in their pursuit of common goals.
Meanwhile, in his message to DFA officers and staff read by Undersecretary for Policy Enrique A. Manalo, Secretary Cayetano underscored the need for coordinated action in a whole-of-government approach to effectively implement the country’s foreign policy, in collaboration with partner government agencies.
The Secretary said that through concerted efforts among the DFA, other government agencies and external partners, the Philippines will be able to help in realizing the ASEAN Community Vision 2025 of a peaceful, stable, progressive, and people-centered Community.
He also recognized ASEAN as the Philippines’ partner in attaining the AmBisyon Natin 2040, where all Filipinos will be able to enjoy work-life balance, have access to quality education, convenient transport and infrastructure, and decent and sustainable income.
Both celebrations are part of the DFA’s and the Philippines’ recognition of ASEAN as a cornerstone of the country’s foreign policy since the organization was formed on 08 August 1967, and as a close partner in pursuit of national development. END
Foreign Affairs Undersecretary for Policy Enrique A. Manalo reads the ASEAN Day Message of Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter S. Cayetano to DFA officers and employees during the DFA ASEAN Day Program on 13 August 2018. (DFA photo)
The Department of Foreign Affairs Marines and the DFA Day Care Center students in their ASEAN finery march with the flags of ASEAN and ASEAN member states during the DFA flag-raising program’s parade of colors on 13 August 2018. (DFA photo)
DFA personnel in attendance at the DFA- ASEAN Day celebration held during the Monday flag-raising ceremony on 13 August 2018. (DFA photo)