President Rodrigo R. Duterte delivered a speech online for the opening of the 36th ASEAN Summit higlighting the need for a “cohesive regional response” against the Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.
The Philippine Chief Executive admitted that the crisis has exposed “vulnerabilities” in the system such as limited healthcare and the social protection system. He enjoined the leaders to strengthen the region’s capacity to address the future infectious diseases and outbreaks.
The President welcomed the establishment of the ASEAN COVID-19 Response Fund as he called for stronger economic cooperation of the member states especially in the supply chain connectivity. He convinced fellow heads of state to further accelerate connectivity projects to build resilient and sustainable regional supply chains.
“We also want stronger implementation of ASEAN consensus and protection and promotion of the rights of the migrant workers,” the Chief Executive stated.
He reminded about other threats to look out for such as terrorism, natural disasters and calamities, and the geo-political shifts that have occurred in which he said, “the great powers will continue to draw us in their respective camps. We should continue to nimbly engage them in ways that most benefit us. We must insist on an open and rules-based international order that gives all countries, large or small, not just a voice but equal standing.”
On the highly disputed South China Sea, President Duterte encouraged his counterparts to avoid measures that will increase the tension between territories and all must follow the rule of law.
At the end of his speech, he assured that the Philippines will cooperate with ASEAN for a better future.
“Rest assured that the Philippines will continue working with the ASEAN to realize our shared aspirations for a peaceful, prosperous and secure future for our people.”
Report from Mela Lesmoras
