The Philippines will push for six "thematic priorities" during this year's chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), coinciding with the 50th founding anniversary of the regional bloc, officials said Thursday.
Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar said the six priorities that the Philippines will pursue are people-oriented and people-centered ASEAN; peace and stability in the region; maritime security and cooperation; inclusive innovation and growth; ASEAN's resiliency; and ASEAN as a model of regionalism and a global player.
"Our ASEAN 2017 theme rings through: We Are Partners for Change, Engaging the World," he said in a news briefing in Malacanang, the presidential palace.
Department of Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Enrique Manalo said the "milestone event" is an occasion for ASEAN to reflect on its success and achievements during the last 50 years and to prepare for the new challenges ahead in the region.
To carry out the ASEAN 2017 priorities, he said the Philippines will be hosting around 100 meetings spread throughout selected cities and regions of the country.
"With 2017 being the 50th anniversary of the founding of ASEAN, the Philippines will also organize commemorative activities to celebrate this milestone in addition to the ASEAN meetings that we will be holding," he added.
Andanar said the government will launch the ASEAN hosting in Davao on Jan. 15, the 30th ASEAN Summit in April, the 50th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting and related meetings in August, and the 31st ASEAN Summit at Clark in northern province of Pampanga in November.
