President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. (INQUIRER.net file photo / Ryan Leagogo)
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines will take the lead in upholding the rule of law in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) region, said President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday.
“With the election of the new Philippine National Committee officers of ALA Philippines, I am confident, the Philippines will take the lead in upholding the rule of law and promoting social stability and economic prosperity in the Asean Region,” Marcos said during the oath taking ceremony of the National Committee Officers of the Asean Law Association (ALA) of the Philippines, Inc.
ALA is a non-government network that connects the judges and lawyers of the Asean nation and creates a framework for regional cooperation.
The President said that the ALA officers’ commitment to strengthen multinational relationships is timely.
“This is particularly vital in achieving our goal of a just global community amidst the critical geopolitical issues that we are being confronted with in the region,” said Marcos.
Marcos’ statement comes amid heightened tension with Beijing over the West Philippine Sea.
China has encroached on Philippines waters despite the 2016 ruling of the Permanent Court of Arbitration, rendering their claim of the West Philippine Sea baseless.