As tensions rise in Myanmar, the Philippines is taking a proactive role as the incoming chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), a regional economic bloc of 10 nations.
Under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the Philippines promotes significant regional initiatives to foster peace and stability in the troubled nation.
In a recent statement, Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Deputy Assistant Secretary Dominic Xavier Imperial highlighted the country’s commitment to supporting ceasefire efforts in Myanmar, reaffirming the nation’s enduring dedication to dialogue and peaceful resolutions amidst conflict.
“The Philippines will be the incoming chair of ASEAN next year, so ang napag-usapan nila is really how Malaysia, as the current chair, and the Philippines, as the incoming chair, will be able to work together para magkaroon ng progress doon sa nangyari sa Myanmar,” Imperial said.
He added that the Philippines is committed to collaborating with fellow ASEAN member states to strengthen regional cooperation and facilitate constructive engagement in maintaining peace in Myanmar.
The collaboration is apt and timely as humanitarian crises unfold and the need for regional unity grows increasingly apparent. With President Marcos scheduled to attend the ASEAN Summit Leaders’ Meeting in Kuala Lumpur on May 26–27, the spotlight will be on his efforts to strengthen regional partnerships and emphasize the importance of a cooperative approach to achieve a lasting ceasefire.
Imperial explained the core principles articulated in the ASEAN Charter and the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC), stressing the importance of non-interference in the internal matters of member states. This approach respects Myanmar’s sovereignty while encouraging constructive dialogue and engagement to resolve ongoing conflicts.
The ASEAN is also committed to humanitarian assistance. Imperial noted that following a recent earthquake in Myanmar, the collective response of ASEAN members, including the Philippines, has been geared towards delivering necessary aid and support to those affected.
Imperial said all the ASEAN member states, including the Philippines, contributed assistance to Myanmar, indicating a united front in addressing humanitarian needs while navigating the complexities of regional politics.
As the Philippines prepares to take on the ASEAN chairmanship, it recognizes the importance of forging strong ties with fellow member states to address the multifaceted challenges in Myanmar.
The Philippines aims to be pivotal in steering ASEAN toward a more cooperative and responsible response to regional crises by fostering effective collaboration with regional partners and advocating for peace, stability, and humanitarian support.
With its commitment to peace and dialogue, the Philippines is ready to shape a brighter future for Myanmar and the Southeast Asian region. It sets a precedent for unity and collective action that could define the future of ASEAN in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.#
