Department of Foreign Affairs Executive Director Zaldy Patron praised the Department of Social Welfare and Development for leading Tuesday’s regional launch of the Socio-Cultural Community Pillar of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
“The Philippines’ Chairmanship of ASEAN comes at a historic moment of our regional organization because the year 2017 also marks ASEAN’s 50th anniversary—its golden year. It is a milestone event that should be celebrated as we look back at ASEAN’s successes and achievements during the last five decades,” Patron said.
He added that now is a time for reflection on the challenges ahead as the ASEAN Community is being built and nurtured, which rests on the three pillars of political-security community, economic community, and socio-cultural community.
With the theme “Partnering for Change, Engaging the World”, Patron mentioned that the Philippines will work more closely with ASEAN neighbors to effect positive change in the lives of the people in the region.
“50 years ago, we made our mark in ASEAN by becoming one of its five founding members. This year, we hope to leave a legacy by becoming a worthy Chair of ASEAN on its golden anniversary,” Patron stressed. (CLJD/JRAA-PIA 3)
