One community

AS the Cordillera region continues to promote the regional autonomy, there’s a need to further uphold as well the Association of Southeast Asian Nations cooperation and integration.

According to DENR-CAR Regional Director Ralph Pablo, members of ASEAN are no longer just neighboring countries in Asia but considered as one community with one shared identity and one vision that everyone should be aware of.

Speaking during the ASEAN 50th anniversary celebration highlighted with the ASEAN Flotilla at the Burnham Park on August 8, Pablo appealed to the public to understand the essence of the landmark at Burnham Park which is not just a decoration but rather a landmark serving its purpose on reminding the people to promote the importance of the assimilation of the ten countries of the association.

“Partake in spreading more awareness about the ASEAN cooperation and integration. Let us make today a memorable day, historic, and fruitful day to all of us,” the regional director said.

In the program spearheaded by the City Government of Baguio and the Philippine Information Agency Cordillera, guest speaker Police Chief Inspector Kimberly Molitas, Chief of NCRPO Public Information Office also appealed to all Cordillerans to support the ASEAN

“Build awareness, engage the public. Allow them to understand what the ASEAN efforts is all about that way we can become one voice, and become representatives, and become truly the citizens this country deserve to have,” she said.

The activity was immediately followed by the ASEAN Landmark lighting at the Baguio City Hall past 6pm, the City’s participation to the golden anniversary commemoration of ASEAN held in Manila and other cities and municipalities in the country to help raise the level of awareness of the citizenry on the importance and benefits of the ASEAN Community according to PIACAR.

At the same period of time President Rodrigo Duterte who graced the 50th anniversary of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and the closing ceremony of the 50th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting at the PICC Pasay City, called on to the 10 ASEAN member states to remain united in building a stronger and more peaceful and secure region.

Such undertakings will definitely help more people understand the importance of the ASEAN integration and cooperation. Breaking barriers and bridging borders will lead to the formation of one community and one voice which is very essential in achieving economic growth and development in many aspects in the entire region.

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