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| 13 JANUARY 2007 | ||
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| 13 JANUARY 2007 | ||
| Statement of the President: Re ASEAN |
This year’s summits are set to break new ground towards greater solidarity, cohesiveness and cooperation in the whole of East Asia. The unequivocal commitment of regional leaders to peace, stability and economic prosperity for their peoples will continue to mark a caring and sharing regional community sailing through challenging seas. The prospects are bright, and the vision shall become even grander with every meeting and discussion among the movers and shakers of ASEAN and East Asia. All the leaders are at the proper time and place to make key decisions that will make a difference to the future course of the region and the world. This is the century of ASEAN and East Asia as the center of gravity of global trade and investments, and the Philippines is poised to ride the tide. |
| Statement of Secretary Ignacio R. Bunye: Re Economy |
We have seen the strong performance of the economy and we are more than confident of achieving our goals beyond target because of the market’s agility and resiliency on the back of good governance and strong popular enterprise. We are seeing the fruits of reform flow down to the doorstep of every Filipino family through enhanced social services, infrastructure, and better-paying jobs—and this is enlivening the cycle of stability and investment already set in motion. The President and her entire team are consolidating the nation on various fronts—economic, political and security—and we call upon the people to rally behind the leader, keep politicking at bay and forge a spirit of national unity to bring hope to the present and future generations. We may have a long way to go to realize our dream but we are on the right track and we must push on without looking back. |
| ASEAN dignitaries, visitors satisfied with summit security preparations |
CEBU, Philippines – Delegates and foreign dignitaries have expressed satisfaction with the security measures adopted by the government for the 12th Summit of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) now underway in this fast-industrializing Visayan metropolis. Director General Oscar Calderon, chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), said on Friday that the visiting dignitaries were "happy with the security provided to them. There have been no complaints so far." Calderon said that ASEAN delegates were also pleased with the accommodation accorded to them by the host government and the people of Cebu. "The visiting delegates are happy with the security provided to them and there are no complaints so far," Calderon said. But he stressed that the police will take no chances in ensuring the safety and welfare of the visiting foreign dignitaries and others coming to Cebu during the summit. He also appealed to the public to help authorities by being vigilant and to report to the police any likely threat to peace and order, especially during the summit. The same sentiment was expressed by Singapore Foreign Minister George Yeo, who said that "terrorism is always a concern and we must always ensure safety. But we have full confidence in our host," referring to the Philippine government. The visitors’ expressions of confidence in the government’s security preparations despite the three bombing incidents in Mindanao on Wednesday have boosted the morale of the police and military providing security during the summit. But National organizing committee chairman Ambassador Marciano Paynor said that the Mindanao bombings were isolated cases that would not in any way affect the Cebu summit. |
| Statement of Secretary Ignacio R. Bunye: Re Bombings |
| The government is moving to put
an end to the bombings, getting the bombers and preserving the peace process. All measures supporting these objectives shall be pursued in the name of justice and the rule of law. Our fight against terror has been gaining ground and this will not relent as we pursue all avenues of regional cooperation. |
| PGMA unveils CICC marker in colorful rites |
| CEBU, Philippines - To the
thunderous applause of a gallery overlooking the lobby of the newly-completed Cebu
International Convention Center, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo unveiled here Friday
afternoon the commemorative marker of the newly-completed edifice described by Cebuanos as
a symbol of their "indomitable spirit." Assisted by Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia, the President thus officially opened the convention center to the 12th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit for which it was built under the most trying circumstances and controversy in the last eight months. Garcia, along with ASEAN Summit National Organizing Committee secretary general Ambassador Marciano Paynor Jr., welcomed the President upon her arrival from Shangri-La's Mactan Island Resort and Spa where she will be billeted along with 15 other heads of state for the duration of the conclave. Garbed in a light blue business suit, the President was greeted by an array of native dancers from various colleges and universities in this province and flag bearers in gala uniforms carrying the colors of the participating countries in the four-day regional conclave. The Black BMW Presidential Car bearing the Chief Executive stopped at the main lobby of the CICC at exactly 4:30 p.m. Garcia, in a white terno and shorter hairdo, and Paynor, in barong, ushered her in to the spanking convention center for the unveiling rites. Along with Trade Secretary Peter Favila, the President then proceeded to the basement to formally open the exhibit of sites and products from various Cebu towns. The Chief Executive felt very much at home as she chatted with the exhibitors who lined up to greet her and take souvenir shots of the President who garnered a runaway number of votes in this province in the last national elections. "Impressive, impressive," she told the exhibitors in the vernacular, referring to the native products intended to showcase the best of Cebu . The President proceeded to the bilateral rooms at the ground floor to view the exhibit of Cebu Furniture Industries Foundation which provided the furnishings at both the CICC and the Shangri-La Mactan Island Resort and Spa. She then joined local officials and summit guests in the cocktails. |
| BIMP-EAGA MOU on air linkages signed |
| CEBU, Philippines - Brunei
Darussalam, Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines agreed on Friday to expand their air
linkages in a move to further boost trade and tourism among the four countries. The four-nation Memorandum of Agreement (MOU) on Expansion of Air Linkages in the Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East Asia Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) was signed in the presence of Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Brunei Darussalam Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and Malaysian Prime Minister Adbullah Badawi on the third day of the 12th Summit of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) here. Those who signed the MOU were Transportation and Communications Secretary Leandro Mendoza for the Philippines, and Malaysian Foreign Minister Hamid Jaafar Albar, Indonesian Foreign Minister Dr. Nur Hassan Wirajuda, and Brunei Foreign Minister Prince Mohamed Bolkiah. In her opening statement, the President said that the Philippines is also looking forward to the continuing negotiations with Indonesia on a memorandum of understanding on cooperation on the development of energy and mineral resources. She also cited the importance of conserving the environment beyond borders by maintaining the delicate ecological balance of the region. For the Philippines, the new accord will pave the way for Mindanao to be the country's new gateway to the neighboring countries of Brunei, Indonesia and Malaysia. The leaders also reaffirmed efforts to enhance cooperation within the sub-region on the areas of energy, customs, immigration and quarantine security (CIQS). In a separate press conference, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process in Mindanao Jesus Dureza hailed the signing of these agreements to hasten economic development in the sub-region. He pointed out that airlines in the BIMP-EAGA have been waiting for a long time for the conclusion of these accords. The BIMP-EAGA report, which was prepared by Malaysia, as the standing chair, had been presented to the ASEAN leaders during the start of their Summit Friday afternoon at Shangri-La. The signing ceremony Friday afternoon was the first activity to be graced by President Arroyo upon her arrival here for the 12th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit. The BIMP-EAGA is aimed at accelerating economic development in the region through increased investments, the development of human resources, effective use of natural resources and stronger security measures. |
| PGMA urges private sector to take active role in BIMP-EAGA projects |
| CEBU, Philippines--- President
Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has urged the private sector to play a more proactive role in the
implementation of the Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East Asia Growth Area
(BIMP-EAGA) flagship programs and projects. In her opening statement at the 3rd BIMP-EAGA Leaders Summit held Friday at the Mactan Ballroom of the posh Shangri-La's Mactan Resort and Spa, the President also cited the importance of BIMP-EAGA's development partners in harnessing the full potential of the growth area. "It is the private sector of the region that plays a crucial role in economic integration. And so, in this Summit, we hope that we can indeed urge the private sector to play a more proactive role in the implementation of BIMP-EAGA flagship programs and projects," she said. The President cited the sub-regional grouping's initiatives such as the halal poultry project, renewable energy, and environmental concerns. "We are confident that with the support of the region's development partners, such as the Asian Development Bank (ADB), People's Republic of China, the Northern Territory of Australia, we shall be able to harness the region's potentials and create an environment conducive to further trade and investments," the President added. The President also took the opportunity to thank the leaders of Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia and Malaysia for their valuable support in the Philippine government's efforts in dealing with the security situation in Mindanao. Malaysia was the facilitator of the peace process and head of the ceasefire monitoring team in Mindanao, while Indonesia is chair of the Committee of Eight. Brunei is a member of the ceasefire monitoring team and host to Madrasah scholars from Mindanao. "We have been able to mend together confidence building measures grounded on strong faith dialogue and cultural awareness, invest in economic and basic infrastructure and development of mutual security arrangements to keep peace in Mindanao," the President said. The BIMP-EAGA Summit was attended by Brunei Prime Minister Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, Indonesian President Bambang Susilo Yudhoyono, and Malaysian Prime Minister Dato Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi. |
| Timor Leste thanks RP, ASEAN for role in building peace |
| CEBU, Philippines - Timor Leste
expressed today its deep appreciation to the Philippines and the other member countries of
the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) for their role in helping bring peace
and build stability in East Timor. Timor Leste Foreign Minister Dr. Jose Luis Guterres expressed his country's sentiment during the ASEAN-Timor Leste Foreign Ministers Meeting chaired by Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto G. Romulo today. Foreign Minister Guterres expressed particular appreciation to the Philippines for sending members of the Philippine National Police (PNP) to join the UN mission in Timor Leste. He also expressed gratitude and admiration for PNP Director Roldofo Tor, who was named by the United Nations as the police commissioner for its new mission in East Timor. "We have a long tradition of contributing to peace-building and we are glad that we are able to help bring peace to the people of Timor Leste," Secretary Romulo said after the meeting.` The Secretary also welcomed closer relations between ASEAN and Timor Leste, saying that today's meeting "truly reflects the close ties that we have as neighbors in the region." He said that building these ties are particularly important "now, more than ever before" in the face of "multi-faceted regional and global challenges, including traditional and non-traditional security threats, that require even closer cooperation in the region." Romulo welcomed Timor Leste's participation in the ASEAN Foreign Ministers meeting in the "spirit of regional good neighborliness." He said ASEAN's commitment to assist Timor Leste demonstrated the keen interest of ASEAN members in establishing a "caring and sharing community." Guterres told the meeting that Timor Leste hopes to one day join ASEAN. Timor Leste is scheduled to accede to ASEAN's Treaty of Amity and Cooperation during the ongoing 12th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits here, an act that is first step towards full membership in the regional bloc that is moving towards full regional integration. |
| PGMA asks ASEAN countries to flesh out 'One Caring and Sharing Community' theme |
| CEBU, Philippines-President
Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo urged today the member countries of the Association of Southeast
Asian Nations (ASEAN) to initiate concrete projects and programs that would flesh out the
theme of the 12th ASEAN Summit: "One Caring and Sharing Community." In her statement at the formal opening of the summit at the Mactan Summit Hall at the Shangri-La's Mactan Island Resort and Spa in Lapu-Lapu City, the President said that as the theme suggests, "we want to advance the sense of community in our shared interest to look after each other in terms of justice, economic development and common security." The President said that she hopes the ASEAN community would make progress on issues of energy independence, human rights, economic integration and social justice. She also said that the Philippines is hosting the 12th ASEAN Summit at a time when the world is facing great challenges, such as the concern on nuclear proliferation and the faltering Doha Round of trade negotiations. But ASEAN, the President said, has stood firm on its commitment on the issue of North Korea and to keep the doors of global foreign trade open. She said the regional grouping is also committed to expand its trade area "to create one of the world's greatest trading blocs." "So, I believe the future of ASEAN is bright indeed," the President said. The President said that the fact that the leaders of 17 "great nations" are in Cebu City for the 12th ASEAN Summit and related top-level meetings, "is a testament to the desire of leaders and their people for greater collaboration among nations." The leaders of the 10 ASEAN members, six dialogue partners and Timor Leste are attending the Cebu summits. |
| PGMA formally opens 12th ASEAN Summit |
CEBU, Philippines--The three-day 12th Summit of the Association of Southeast Nations (ASEAN) formally opened this morning at a tropical resort hotel overlooking the Cebu Sea, amid high hopes that the gathering would lead to the establishment of ASEAN as one "Caring and Sharing Community." President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, who was dressed in a beige linen barong-style suit, arrived at the Shangri-La’s Mactan Island Resort and Spa, the venue of the summit, 30 minutes ahead of the 9 a.m. scheduled arrival of her fellow ASEAN heads of state. Brunei Prime Minister Haji Hassanal Bolkiah arrived first and was followed by the other leaders in alphabetical order. The President once again had her shining moment as host of the summit and the only woman at that. The men were garbed in short sleeved linen barong embroidered with brown trimmings. Each head of state arrived riding a golf cart that ferried them from their cottages to the Mactan Summit Hall to a red carpet welcome. After all the 10 heads of state arrived, they posed for their first group photo for the summit against the backdrop of the Mactan Channel with vintas sailing. The leaders were led into the summit hall to start their first retreat session to discuss the future direction of ASEAN. The retreat style was adopted in the conduct of the sessions so the leaders’ discussions would be informal and relaxed. |
| ASEAN leaders adopt declaration on the protection of migrant workers' rights |
| CEBU, Philippines-Leaders of
the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have adopted a pro-active
approach in the Declaration on the Protection and Promotion of the Rights of Migrant
Workers in line with the principles of strengthening the political, economic and social
pillars of the ASEAN community. Undersecretary Esteban Conejos Jr. of the Department of Foreign Affairs Office for Migrant Workers said that ASEAN officials have moved off from the usual gigantic and normative approach and instead used a more pro-active mechanism that will take into account the fundamental rights and dignity of the migrant workers. He said that instead of simply enumerating the rights of the migrant workers, the ASEAN officials have defined the three entities -the receiving states, the sending states and the commitment of the ASEAN--who will have obligations with respective rights. Conejos said that basically, the obligation of the receiving states is to promote harmony and understanding between the host governments/states and the migrant workers. He said that implicit with the obligation is the recognition that labor migration benefits not only the migrant workers, their families and their country of origin but also the country they are working with. He also said that one of the major obligations of the receiving states is the commitment to facilitate access to certain services and remedies through information, training and education, legal and judicial system, social welfare benefits, protection of employment, payment of wages and the provision of decent working and living condition of the migrant workers. He also said that the host country will have an obligation to provide assistance to any victims of discrimination, abuse, exploitation and violence. He added that in the event that one of the nationals is detained or arrested, the host government is obligated to facilitate the exercise of consular functions to consular or diplomatic authorities of states of origin. He said that the ASEAN leaders will sign the Declaration on the Protection and Promotion of the Rights of the Migrant Workers Saturday, Jan. 13. |
| PGMA cites Mindanao peace model for world to follow |
| CEBU, Philippines-President
Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo cited today the Mindanao peace model as something that the
Philippines would like to share with the rest of the world. In her statement during the formal opening this morning of the 12th Summit of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the President said that the peace model in Mindanao is "an example of how nations working together can make positive things happen." The President thanked anew the governments of Malaysia, Indonesia and Brunei Darussalam for their full support to the peace process in Southern Philippines. "I want to reiterate my thanks to the ASEAN leaders who have been helping the success of the Philippine model for dealing with the flashpoint area in Mindanao," the President said. She said that the Philippine government has been able to put up confidence building measures "grounded on strong interfaith dialogue and cultural awareness, investments in economic and basic infrastructure development and mutual security arrangements to keep the peace in Mindanao." According to the President, aside from the three neighboring Muslim countries, there has also been a broad spectrum of international organizations and nations that have helped in restoring peace in Mindanao, such as Sweden, the European Union, Japan, the United States, Libya and the member countries of the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC). "The broad-based coalition is working to keep the peace, isolate general security threats and promote the economic well-being of Muslim and Christian residents in Mindanao," the President said. |
| EPG recommends 28 vital proposals for ASEAN charter |
CEBU, Philippines--The Eminent Persons Group (EPG) has endorsed 28 "bold and visionary" recommendations for the proposed charter of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to reposition its economic competitiveness in a fast changing world environment. These recommendations were enumerated in an executive summary of the blueprint of the charter submitted on Friday by the EPG to the ASEAN leaders attending the 12th ASEAN summit here. The summit proper formally opened this morning at the Shangri-La’s Mactan Island Resort and Spa. The EPG, composed of elder statesmen and experts from 10 member states of ASEAN, is tasked to formulate a charter that will guide the regional bloc in promoting peace and stability, strengthening economic growth and democracy in the region in the generations to come. It also proposed to rename the ASEAN Summit to ASEAN Council and the leaders to meet at least twice a year. Members of the EPG held a press conference at the Cebu International Convention Center (CICC) Friday night to announce their recommendations for incorporation in the proposed ASEAN Charter. Former Malaysian Deputy Prime Minister Tun Musa Hitam, EPG chairman, presided over the press conference. Other EPG members are former Philippine President Fidel V. Ramos, Pehin Dato Lim Jock Seng of Brunei, Dr. Aun Porn Moniroth of Cambodia, Khamphan Simmalavony of Laos, Dr. Than Nyun of Myanmar, Kasemsamorn S. Kaseri of Thailand, Nguyen Mahn Cam of Vietnam, Dr. Temsak Chalempalanupa, ASEAN secretary general, Professor S. Jayakuman of Singapore and former Indonesian Foreign Minister Ali Alatas. This will the first time that ASEAN will have a charter of its own 40 years after it was founded in Bangkok, Thailand. In the executive summary, the EPG said that "after 40 years ASEAN is now at a critical turning point," adding that "although ASEAN is one of the most successful regional organizations today, there is no guarantee that it will continue to be relevant in the coming decades and remain the driving force in regional cooperation." In the draft charter, formulated over a span of one year, the EPG introduced "bold and visionary ideas to strengthen ASEAN." "While the ASEAN Charter will bring about a long overdue legal framework, ASEAN must reposition itself. It must address the growing challenges and opportunities of regional integration, the major shifts in the Asian landscape brought about by the rise of China and India and Asia's widening links with the rest of the world," the EPG said. Under ASEAN's principles and objectives, the EPG recommended: Promotion of ASEAN's peace and stability through the active strengthening of democratic values, good governance, rejection of unconstitutional and undemocratic changes of government, respect of the rule of law, including international humanitarian law, human rights and fundamental freedoms.
To realize the vision of an ASEAN Communitry, the EPG recommended the following:
On resources mobilization and narrowing the development gap, the EPG recommendations are:
Taking obligations seriously with regard to the implementation and compliance with ASEAN commitments, the EPG recommended the following:
To strengthen the ASEAN Secretariat and enhance its policy analysis and planning, administrative, and monitoring activities, the EPG recommended:
|
| Bunye: Fruits of reform flowing down to the doorstep of every Filipino family |
| Gearing towards national
unity and consolidation, Malacaņang expressed today utmost confidence it will achieve its
goal of providing more benefits to the Filipino people in terms of decent jobs, health,
education and other basic services on the back of good governance of the Arroyo
administration. "We have seen the strong performance of the economy and we are more than confident of achieving our goals beyond target because of the market's agility and resiliency on the back of good governance and strong popular enterprise," Press Secretary and Presidential Spokesman Ignacio R. Bunye said. He issued the statement as the government raised its growth forecast on the economy to between 6.1 and 6.7 percent this year as a result of improving economic indicators such as the stronger peso, lower inflation rate and growing exports. The new official forecast on the economic growth was higher than the original target of 5.7 to 6.5 percent for 2007 and the projected 5.5 percent growth last year. "We are seeing the fruits of reform flow down to the doorstep of every Filipino family through enhanced social services, infrastructure, and better-paying jobs - and this is enlivening the cycle of stability and investment already set in motion," Bunye said. Stressing that President Gloria Macapagal-Arryo and her entire team are consolidating the nation on various fronts such as economic, political stability and security, Bunye called upon the people to rally behind the Chief Executive and help the government forge a spirit of national unity to bring hope to the present and future generations. "We may have a long way to go to realize our dream but we are on the right track and we must push on without looking back," he said. The country's economic managers headed by Finance Secretary Margarito Teves earlier said the passage of the proposed P1.136 trillion national budget for 2007 was necessary to realize the government's goal of pump-priming the economy. The Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC) has forecast that the average peso-dollar exchange rate for 2007 would be between P48 and P50 against the US dollar, much lower than the original target of P51 to P53 per dollar. With that forecast, the inflation rate has also been scaled down to just between 3.3 and 3.8 percent from the 4 to 5 percent original target. The economic managers also said that aside from the strengthening of the peso, the softening increase in world oil prices was considered in forecasting a slower inflation rate. The DBCC said exports are expected to grow between 10.5 and 11 percent for 2007 because of the global demand for electronics, the country's major export product. |
| Leaders seek inclusion of ASEAN studies in university curriculum of member nations |
| CEBU, Philippines -- The ASEAN
concept of a borderless community of nations soon will leap from the drawing boards of the
policymakers to university classrooms if the proposal for a common curriculum on ASEAN
Studies gets the nod of the heads of state of the 10-member regional bloc. The proposed region-wide curriculum on ASEAN Studies was raised during the first session of the retreat-style summit meeting of the heads of state of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) at the Shangri-La's Mactan Resort and Spa in a bid to harness and engage the youth in the pursuit of the vision of one caring and sharing regional community. The ASEAN Studies was part of the steps that member states are supposed to take to make ASEAN grow and become an economically vibrant borderless community. Under the proposal, ASEAN Studies would be introduced in the university-level curriculum of the member countries. President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, chair of the ASEAN this year, presided over this morning's two-hour summit meeting. On the agenda were: the future direction of ASEAN, internal relations within ASEAN including the ASEAN Charter, and ASEAN's relations with other countries. The subjects of the leaders' discussions included energy security, terrorism, the borderless community concept and the plight of ASEAN workers. They agreed to work closely to close the development gap between the richer and poorer nations of ASEAN. ASEAN leaders also noted a proposal to include in the proposed ASEAN Charter a human rights mechanism. They also noted a separate proposal for an increase in the member countries' monetary contributions to the ASEAN Foundation by another $5 million, with each member state chipping in to the fund on a staggered basis and depending on their financial capability. |
| Romulo: Broader engagement with France opens new opportunities for RP , ASEAN |
| ROMULO: BROADER ENGAGEMENT WITH
FRANCE OPENS NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR RP, ASEAN CEBU, Philippines--After a brief noon meeting today between ASEAN and France, Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto G. Romulo said the accession of France to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC) will broaden ASEAN's engagement with France, which in turn will open and present more opportunities for trade and investment, as well as political cooperation for the Philippines and the other members of ASEAN. Romulo and the ASEAN foreign ministers met with France's Minister Delegate for European Affairs Catherine Collona today shortly before the Secretary hosted lunch for the ASEAN foreign ministers. Speaking after their noon meeting, Romulo said that "France's accession to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia is reflective of the French Republic's intimate and long standing association with Southeast Asia. It also reaffirms France's vision to open new avenues for the growth of our relations." "While we are active participants in strengthening our respective regional organizations, the imperatives of globalization also compel us to build firmer ties between our regions," Romulo said. He added that "It is in this spirit that ASEAN has encouraged our friends from outside the region to accede to the TAC, which is the key ASEAN code of conduct governing relations between states for the promotion of peace, security and stability in the region." He also expressed the confidence that with the accession of France to the TAC, other countries will be inspired to do the same. "We have no doubt that with its international standing, the example of France will be considered in capitals around the world," the secretary said. |
| ASEAN leaders agree to close ranks in fight against HIV-AIDS |
| CEBU, Philippines - Leaders of the Association
of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) agreed today that countries in the region must close
ranks in the fight against HIV-AIDS. At the Special Session on HIV-AIDS of the 12th ASEAN Summit today at the Shangri-La's Mactan Resort and Spa, the leaders agreed on the need to bolster the campaign against HIV-AIDS not only in ASEAN but also among international groups and non-government organizations (NGOs). The leaders noted that 2006 saw the highest incidence of the disease worldwide and agreed that a lot remains to be done to stem the deadly rampage of HIV-AIDS. To raise the ramparts against HIV-AIDS, countries in the region must step up their collaboration in the various efforts to forestall the spread of the disease, including raising the level of the people's awareness and education about the disease, they said. The leaders said that strengthening the region's campaign against HIV-AIDS would be in keeping with the theme of the ASEAN Summit this year of "One Caring and Sharing Community." They also agreed that more funds were needed to mount a full-scale response to HIV-AIDS, the leading cause of premature deaths among 25 year olds and below worldwide. The best way to prevent the spread of the disease especially among women and children is through increased awareness and education. Prevention and education is still the best antidote to the disease as there is still no known cure for it, the leaders said. They also agreed that priority must be given to the treatment of people living with AIDS-stricken persons, especially the poor who cannot afford the high cost of HIV-AIDS drugs. The ASEAN leaders also underscored the need for people in the region to share experiences and knowledge about the disease and its prevention as they noted that ASEAN is becoming increasingly vulnerable to the disease because of the region's growing attraction as a worldwide travel destination. The first ASEAN special session on HIV-AIDS was held in Brunei in 2001. Present at today's session, the second for the regional leaders on the issue, were Brunei Darussalam Prime Minister Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Hun Sen, Laos Prime Minister Bousane Bouphavanh, Malaysian Prime Minister Dato Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, Myanmar Prime Minister Gen. Soe Win, Indonesian President Bambang Susilo Yudhoyono, Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung, Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, Thai Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont and Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. |
| Cebu declaration reaffirms need to build an ASEAN community of caring, sharing societies |
| CEBU, Philippines-The 10 member-countries of
the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) formally signed today the "Cebu
Declaration Towards One Caring and Sharing Community" to put emphasis on the third
pillar of ASEAN, the building of a socio-cultural community. The Cebu Declaration cited the core elements of the Vientiane Action Programme (VAP), which aims to build a "caring and sharing community" to address vital issues that include poverty, inequality of human development, social impact of economic integration, inadequate systems of social protection, and lack of sound environmental governance. The Declaration also underscored the importance of the Millennium Declaration wherein ASEAN Leaders at the 2nd ASEAN-United Nations Summit in 2005 declared to focus their collective efforts toward the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). In adopting the Cebu Declaration, the ASEAN was encouraged by the 2001 Declaration on the Commitments for Children in ASEAN wherein the survival, development, protection and participation rights of children in various conditions, including those with special needs, were recognized and identified. The ASEAN leaders also said that there is a need to address the development gap among ASEAN member countries and to facilitate the pace of economic integration of ASEAN into one community of nations. The Cebu Declaration vowed to: 1. Reaffirm ASEAN's commitment to realize the MDGs and the four strategic thrusts of the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC), particularly in reducing poverty and inequality, and in improving the standard and quality of life of our people. 2. Direct relevant ASEAN Sectoral Ministerial bodies to accelerate ASEAN cooperation under the socio-cultural pillar through closer consultation and synergy of cooperation in realizing the goals of the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) with clear timelines. 3. Strive to build a caring and sharing community for children that will effectively address issues on their survival, development, protection and participation rights through adequate allocation of resources and undertake effective measures and strengthen existing mechanisms to promote and protect the rights of the child, in accordance with the Convention on the Rights of the Child. 4. Encourage equitable and effective participation of women in all fields in the ASEAN community-building process. 5. Encourage greater institutional collaboration in promoting ASEAN awareness particularly among the younger generation, and promote the increased involvement of ASEAN youth and students at national and regional level activities, so that they can make valuable contributions to the achievement of the ASEAN Community. 6. Commit to improve ASEAN's standard of education to build a more competitive workforce. 7. Expand the participation of ASEAN parliamentarians, private sector and civil society organizations in line with the goal toward a people-centered ASEAN. 8. Promote ASEAN identity building in support of an ASEAN Community by undertaking initiatives and activities to increase the level of ASEAN awareness and "we feeling" among the peoples of ASEAN. We also reaffirm our efforts in preserving and promoting the region's rich and vast cultural heritage and living traditions, which reflect the ASEAN spirit of unity in cultural diversity and social harmony. The leaders who signed the Declaration were Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei Darussalam, Prime Minister Samdech Hun Sen of Cambodia, President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono of Indonesia, Prime Minister Bouasone Bouphavanh of Lao People's Democratic Republic, Prime Minister Dato Seri Abdullah Bin Haji Ahmad Badawi of Malaysia, Prime Minister Gen. Soe Win of the Union of Myanmar, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo of the Philippines, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong of Singapore. Prime Minister Gen. Surayud Chulanont of Thailand, and Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung of Vietnam. |
| ASEAN leaders bat for DOHA talks resumption |
| CEBU, Philippines - Leaders of the Association
of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) batted on Saturday for the revival of the stalled talks
on a global free trade agreement and called on the major trading partners to steer the
negotiations back on track. In a statement, the ASEAN leaders cited the urgency of breaking the impasse in the negotiations, stressing that members of the World Trade Organization (WTO), particularly the major players, must demonstrate flexibility "by moving beyond their current positions in key areas of the Round." "Breakthroughs in the critical negotiating areas of agriculture and NAMA (non-agricultural market access) are needed to put the process back on track," the statement said. "This will entail rules and disciplines on and making substantial reductions in trade distorting domestic support by the major players and real reductions in both agriculture and industrial tariffs," The Doha talks -- so named because they were launched in the capital of Qatar -- began in 2001 but WTO director general Pascal Lamy halted them last July because of irreconcilable divisions among the major trading nations. A great deal of work aimed at building confidence among nations has since been going on in bilateral and small group discussions since July. In the statement, the ASEAN thanked Lamy for his message on the Round and urged him to further engage all WTO members in pushing the process forward. The ASEAN leaders also welcomed Vietnam's entry as the 150th member of the WTO as they expressed their support behind Laos' application to the trade organization. ASEAN member countries, the statement said, are prepared to make contributions to ensure an outcome of the negotiations that will allow their economies to develop and prosper. The Doha talks, aimed at alleviating poverty and boosting the global economy, have been stalled primarily because of disagreements among the major trading powers on the ticklish issues of tariffs and farm subsidies. The European Union wants the United States to cut trade-distorting subsidies to its farmers. Washington has rejected the EU proposal, and called on the EU and the big developing countries, such as Brazil to make deep cuts in tariffs on agricultural imports. Another dispute pits the developing and developed countries against one another. The developing countries want lower tariffs on their agricultural exports to the US and European markets. For their part, the major trading powers want greater access for their goods and services in developing markets. "We have no doubt that a successful Doha Round will spur economic growth, and offer a tangible means to reduce poverty globally, and in the ASEAN region," the ASEAN leaders said. "The Doha Round provides a unique opportunity to boost our drive towards development and prosperity in ASEAN." |
| ASEAN leaders vow to speed up establishment of ASEAN community |
| CEBU, Philippines- Leaders of the Association
of Southeast Asians Nations (ASEAN) adopted today an agreement that will further spur
economic, political security and socio-cultural cooperation in the region. In today's first ASEAN leaders' meeting at the Shangri-La's Mactan Island Resort and Spa, the 10 member-countries signed the Cebu Declaration on the Acceleration of the Establishment of an ASEAN Community by 2015 in a determined effort to deal more effectively with the increasing range of trans-boundary concerns which the region is facing in this rapidly changing world. The ASEAN leaders said that they are aware that the strengthening of ASEAN integration through the accelerated establishment of an ASEAN community will reinforce the region's centrality and role as the driving force in charting the evolving regional architecture. In response to the increasing number of regional challenges, the ASEAN leaders believed that they must exert their best efforts to build a strong ASEAN community premised on a closely integrated, dynamic and vibrant regional economy, deeper political and security cooperation and stronger socio-cultural linkages. Under the Declaration, the leaders expressed their strong commitment towards accelerating the establishment of an ASEAN Community by 2015 along the lines of the ASEAN Vision 2020 and the Declaration of ASEAN Concord II, under the three pillars of the ASEAN Security Community, ASEAN Economic Community and ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community. The leaders agreed to accelerate the full implementation of the ASEAN Community's program areas, measures, and principles, with appropriate flexibility. They recognized that different levels of development within ASEAN require some flexibility as ASEAN moves towards a more integrated and interconnected future. The leaders also committed to further expand their engagement with their dialogue partners- Australia, China, India, Japan, Republic of Korea, and New Zealand and other parties which they believed will assist ASEAN in its integration efforts to achieve the ASEAN Community by 2015. |
| France, Timor Leste accede to treaty of amity, cooperation in Southeast Asia |
| CEBU, Philippines - The Association of
Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) consented Saturday to the accession of France and Timor
Leste to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation (TAC) in Southeast Asia in separate documents
signed by all foreign ministers attending the 12th ASEAN Summit here. With the signing of the Instrument of Extension, France and Timor Leste thus became the 11th and 12th states outside Southeast Asia to accede to the Treaty. The other 10 non-ASEAN states that have acceded to the TAC are China, India, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Mongolia, New Zealand, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, the Russian Federation and Australia which filed their Instrument of Accession only last year in the Kuala Lumpur summit. Catherine Colonna, Minister Delegate for European Affairs of the French Republic, and Jose Luis Gutierres, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of the Democratic Republic of Timor Leste, signed the Instrument of Accession for their respective countries. France, as early as July last year had already signed its Instrument of Accession to the TAC in accordance with its internal procedures and deposited the same instrument with a vow to faithfully perform and carry out the provisions contained therein. The TAC, which was signed in February of 1976 in Bali, Indonesia, was amended by the First and Second Protocols in 1987 and 1988, respectively. It specifically and legally binds all its ASEAN signatories to peaceful co-existence and respect for the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, non-interference in internal affairs and non-use of force. The Treaty's Amity clause emphasizes increased contact and interaction among ASEAN's peoples to ensure closer understanding. Its Cooperation clauses oblige active efforts at consultation on international and regional matters with a view to policy and action coordination. They also restrict individual signatory states from participating in activities that constitute a threat to the political and economic stability, sovereignty and territorial integrity of another signatory state. The operationalization of the TAC, therefore, is facilitated by finding equilibrium between the definitive principles of sovereignty and non-interference, and the regulatory provisions for necessary transnational action and coordination. The TAC is accompanied by two amending protocols which permit its extension to non-Southeast Asian states with reservations, and also acknowledges the expansion of ASEAN to include new members. |
| ASEAN leaders sign declaration on protection of fundamental human rights of migrant workers |
| CEBU, Philippines-In a concrete step to give
flesh to the 12th ASEAN Summit's theme of "One Caring and Sharing Community,"
the leaders of the regional bloc signed today a declaration binding the member countries
to protect the fundamental human rights, promote the welfare and uphold the dignity of
migrant workers regionwide. The Declaration on the Protection and Promotion of the Rights of the Migrant Workers was the first document signed by the ASEAN leaders on the first day of the Summit, highlighting the importance with which they view the accord. Summit officials also said the signing of the agreement was a vital confirmation of the leaders shared responsibility to realize a common vision for a secure and prosperous ASEAN Community. Under the agreement, the ASEAN member countries will promote decent, humane, productive, dignified and remunerative employment for migrant workers as well as establish and implement resource development and reintegration programs for migrant workers in their countries of origin. The ASEAN leaders also pledged to take concrete measures to prevent or curb human smuggling and trafficking by introducing stiffer penalties for those who are involved in these activities. The ASEAN member countries will also facilitate data-sharing to enhance policies and programs concerning migrant workers in both sending and receiving states. The leaders also agreed to extend assistance to migrant workers of ASEAN countries who are caught in conflict or crisis situations outside ASEAN based on the capacities and resources of the embassies and consular offices of the relevant ASEAN member countries. They also committed to encourage international organizations, ASEAN dialogue partners and other countries to respect the principles and extend support and assistance in the implementation of the measures contained in the Declaration. The Declaration also states that the receiving state must intensify efforts to protect the fundamental rights, promote the welfare and uphold human dignity of migrant workers. The receiving states are also obliged to facilitate access to resources and remedies through information, training, education, access to justice and social welfare services. Similarly, the receiving states must also promote fair and appropriate employment protection, payment of wages and adequate access to decent working and living conditions for migrant workers. In case a migrant worker is arrested or committed to prison or custody or detained in any other manner, the receiving states must facilitate the exercise of consular functions to consular or diplomatic authorities of states of origin. The sending states, on the other hand, have an obligation to enhance measures related to the promotion and protection of the rights of migrant workers and ensure access to employment and livelihood opportunities for their citizens as sustainable alternatives to migration of workers. The sending states must, likewise, set up policies and procedures to facilitate aspects of migration of workers, including recruitment, preparation for deployment overseas and protection of the migrant workers when abroad as well as repatriation and reintegration to the countries of origin. The sending states are also mandated to establish and promote legal practices to regulate recruitment of migrant workers and adopt mechanisms to eliminate recruitment malpractices through legal and valid contracts, regulation and accreditation of recruitment agencies and employers, and blacklisting of negligent or unlawful agencies. The secretary general of ASEAN is tasked to submit a report annually on the progress of the implementation of the Declaration to the Summit through the ASEAN ministerial meeting. |
| ASEAN endorses RP proposal on debt equity |
| CEBU, Philippines - Leaders of the Association
of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) endorsed Saturday to the Paris Club of world lenders
the Philippine proposal for debt-equity arrangements to fund projects in the pursuit of
the Millennium Development Goals (MDG) of the United Nations. In a statement, the ASEAN leaders cited the need to formulate measures for debt management in relation to the global war on poverty "while recognizing the legitimate rights and prerogatives of lenders." "We agreed that subject to mutual consent of creditors and debtors, formulating modes to temporarily deploy debt service payments to finance social overhead capital may at times be necessary and beneficial," the statement said. Under the Philippine proposal which will involve 102 of the world's poorest countries, borrowers may deploy half of their debt service payments to fund reforestation, pollution control, mass housing, information technology, health care, clean water or other UN MDG projects. The projects would then issue equity to the original creditors in lieu of the debt service payments. "The loans would still effectively be honored while the debt service resources would be kept available for funding the war on poverty," the statement explained. In a unanimous decision last December, the UN General Assembly took note of the Philippine proposal at the Asian Inter-Parliamentary Organization (AIPO) and similarly endorsed it to the Paris Club for consideration. The Paris Club is an informal group of official creditors whose role is to find coordinated and sustainable solutions to the payment difficulties experienced by debtor nations. Paris Club creditors agree to rescheduling as a means of providing a country with debt relief through a postponement and, in the case of concessional rescheduling, a reduction in debt service obligations. The ASEAN leaders noted in their statement that the concept of the Philippine proposal has been put into practice in the case of the recent Pakistan-Norway debt-for-MDG program. "We, therefore, issue this call for creative and responsible international debt management in the context of the UN MDG," they said. |
| ASEAN leaders reaffirm commitment to bolster cooperation vs. terrorism |
| CEBU, Philippines-Leaders of the Association of
Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) reaffirmed today their strong commitment to further
strengthen cooperation in the fight against terrorism. In today's first ASEAN Leaders' meeting, the heads of states adopted the ASEAN Convention on Counter-Terrorism which calls for greater cooperation among the region's frontline law enforcement agencies and relevant authorities in curbing all forms of terrorist acts. The ASEAN leaders stressed that terrorism, in all forms and manifestations, is a serious threat to international peace and security and a direct challenge to the attainment of peace, progress and prosperity of ASEAN and the realization of ASEAN Vision 2020. Under the Convention, the ASEAN member countries agreed to carry out their obligations in a manner consistent with the principles of sovereign equality and territorial integrity of the states and non-interference in the internal affairs of other parties. The Convention also stated that a party is entitled to undertake, in the territory of another party, the exercise of jurisdiction or performance of functions which are exclusively reserved for the authorities of that other party under its domestic laws. However, the Convention will not apply where the offense is committed within a single party, the alleged offender and the victims are nationals of that party, the alleged offender is found in the territory of that party and no other party has basis under the agreement to exercise jurisdiction. The ASEAN leaders have agreed to cooperate and undertake necessary steps to prevent the commission of terrorist acts through intelligence and information sharing and exchanges, effective border patrol control and the optimum use of advanced technologies, including the use of video or teleconference, for investigation and court proceeding purposes and the establishment of regional database. The leaders also agreed to strengthen their capabilities and readiness to deal with chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear (CBRN) terrorism, cyber terrorism and any new forms of terrorism through research and development program. The Convention mentioned that the ASEAN leaders will be guided by the principles in the Charter of the UN and applicable principles of international laws; the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia and its Protocols, UN conventions and protocols on counter terrorism and relevant resolutions of the UN. It enumerated criminal acts of terrorism by citing United Nations conventions and protocols involving unlawful seizure of aircraft, safety of civil aviation, prevention and punishment of crimes against internationally protected persons like diplomatic agents, hostage-taking, nuclear material, violence at airports, safety on maritime navigation, fixed platforms on the continental shelf, plastic explosives, terrorist bombings, financing of terrorism, and nuclear terrorism. In line with ASEAN's commitment to human rights, fair and humane treatment to persons accused of terrorist acts based on the rule of law, due process and applicable principles of international law is also stated in the Convention. Suspected terrorists are entitled to be informed of their rights, communicate without delay with the nearest appropriate representative of the state of which a suspect is a national, and to be visited by a representative of that state, the Convention further stated. The leaders also committed to preserve the confidentiality and secrecy of documents, records and other information received from any other party, including the source thereof. To further enhance cooperation under the Convention, the leaders agreed to designate a central authority or coordinating structure with a representation from each country. Since the 7th ASEAN Summit in Brunei Darussalam adopted the 2001 Declaration on Joint Action to Counter-Terrorism, several initiatives have been adopted and carried out to combat terrorism in the region. These include the Treaty on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters which was signed by eight member countries in November 2004 in Kuala Lumpur and the Jakarta Center for Law Enforcement Cooperation, which was established in July 2004, the Law Enforcement Academy in Thailand and the Southeast Asia Regional Center for Counter-Terrorism in Malaysia. |
| Leaders endorse blueprint of ASEAN charter |
| CEBU, Philippines - Describing it as "a
momentous undertaking" and "crowning achievement," the 10 leaders of the
Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) unanimously endorsed today the Cebu
Declaration on the Blueprint of the ASEAN Charter framed by the Eminent Persons Group
(EPG), in preparation for the final approval of the historic document at the 13th ASEAN
Summit in Singapore in November this year. The ASEAN heads of state/government signed the document on the fourth day of the 12th ASEAN Summit at scenic Shangri-La's Mactan Island Resort and Spa here after it was earlier submitted by the EPG who worked hard for 12 months to fine-tune the proposed ASEAN Charter. "We are committed to establish an ASEAN Charter as a crowning achievement of 40 years of ASEAN to enable ASEAN to meet future challenges and opportunities," the leaders of Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam said. At the same time, the leaders reiterated the "conviction that an ASEAN Charter will serve as a firm foundation in achieving one ASEAN Community by providing an enhanced institutional framework as well as conferring a legal personality to ASEAN." A High Level Task Force will commence drafting the charter for approval in time for the holding of the 13th ASEAN Summit. After receiving the document, the leaders said: "We endorse the Report of the EPG on the ASEAN Charter and agree that the High Level Task Force should commence the drafting of the ASEAN Charter based on our directions given at the 11th and 12th ASEAN Summits, the relevant ASEAN documents, together with the EPG recommendations, to be completed in time for the 13th ASEAN Summit in Singapore in November 2007." The ASEAN leaders who signed the historic document were Brunei Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Hun Sen, Indonesian President Dr. Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, Lao People's Democratic Republic Prime Minister Bouasone Bouphavanh, Malaysian Prime Minister Dato Seri Bin Haji Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, Myanmar Prime Minister General Soe Win, Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, Thailand Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont, and Vietnam Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung. In their Cebu Declaration on the Blueprint of the ASEAN Charter, the leaders said that they were "inspired by One Vision, One Identity, the Creation of One Community for ASEAN by the Year 2020." The idea of creating a charter was originally made in Malaysia in the so-called Kuala Lumpur Declaration on the Establishment of the ASEAN Charter at the 11th ASEAN Summit in 2005. "Conscious that ASEAN has matured into a regional organization and is expanding its role as an integrated regional economy and a dynamic force in maintaining regional peace and stability as envisaged in the Declaration of ASEAN Concord II (Bali Concord II) and its plans of actions, roadmaps, and the ASEAN Vision 2020 which envisions ASEAN as a concert of Southeast Asian nations, outward-looking, living in peace, stability and prosperity, bonded together in partnership in dynamic development and in a community of caring societies," the leaders said in their joint statement. An ASEAN Charter will give the regional economic grouping a legal personality in dealing with the immense opportunities and key challenges facing ASEAN's integration process, rapid globalization and impact of new technologies. ASEAN leaders mandated the EPG "to examine and provide practical recommendations on the directions and nature of the ASEAN Charter relevant to the ASEAN Community as envisioned in the Bali Concord II and beyond." They acknowledged the work of the EPG who consulted various ASEAN sectors and stakeholders, including civil society organizations, businessmen, academes and parliamentarians "on their views regarding what should be the key components of an ASEAN Charter and the changes necessary to support the realization of ASEAN's community building." |
| RP, France seek wider cooperation in key areas of concern |
| CEBU, Philippines-- The Philippines and France
are looking into widening cooperation, in particular, intensifying collaboration in
security, defense, counter-terror, trade and investments and culture. Meeting with French Minister Delegate for European Affairs Catherine Colonna at the sidelines of the 12th ASEAN Summit here, Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto G. Romulo underscored the importance of strengthening ties with France to achieve mutual goals of securing greater peace, progress and prosperity in both countries and their regions. "To effectively address the challenges of the 21st century to both our countries, bilateral cooperation is a key component in the pursuit of our shared interests," Romulo said. Romulo identified security, defense and counter-terror as among the areas France was interested in cooperating with the Philippines. "A safe and secure environment is essential for our two nations' continued growth and development. We welcome France's expressed desire - through Minister Collona - to broaden our cooperation in security, defense and counterterrorism," Romulo said. "Both our countries have a stake in the fight against terrorism. To break terrorism's backbone, positive and proactive engagement with partners like France is a vital strategy that is necessary both for short and long term successes," Romulo explained. According to Romulo, the Philippines is looking at improved information sharing, capacity building and capability and technology upgrading as possible areas of collaboration with France. Romulo also emphasized that wide-ranging cooperation was essential for the achievement of the common goals of the Philippines and France, adding that there is a "healthy room for growth in intensified two-way trade and investments" between the two countries. He also cited the ongoing development partnership between the Philippines and France which has boosted the Philippines' efforts to sustain growth through key infrastructure projects. "As we commemorate 60 years of formal diplomatic relations this year, we look forward to a partnership with France that continues to expand and strengthen across all areas mutually beneficial to our nations," Romulo said. |
| Spouses of visiting ASEAN leaders watch re-enactment of epic Battle of Mactan |
| CEBU, Philippines - Despite the rains, spouses
of the heads of state attending the 12th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)
Summit enjoyed watching the re-enactment of the epic Battle of Mactan in Lapu-Lapu City
Saturday. The spouses, led by host First Gentleman Jose Miguel Tuason Arroyo, watched the staging of the famous battle in 1521, called the "Kadaugan sa Mactan" (Victory in Mactan) at the Mactan Shrine. The re-enactment of the historic battle was the first activity of the visiting ASEAN spouses. Rains did not dampen the presentation of the "Kadaugan sa Mactan" which proceeded as scheduled. The rain-drenched participants performed their routine with excellence and precision to the delight of the visitors who stayed throughout the performance despite the foul weather. The visitors were welcomed by the First Gentleman, Presidential Daughter Luli Arroyo, Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Arturo Radaza and wife Paz Radaza. The visiting First Ladies present were Madam Ani Bambang Yudhoyono of Indonesia and Col. Khunying Chitravadee Chulanont of Thailand. Other guests included spouses of ASEAN ministers and local officials. It was in the Battle of Mactan, which took place in April 1521, that Rajah Lapu-Lapu, Mactan chieftain, killed Spanish colonizer Ferdinand Magellan. The battle was recorded in history books as the first time that a Filipino repulsed a foreign invader. The re-enactment was held at the original site where the battle took place more than four centuries ago. The spouses also witnessed the presentation of "Pangaliya" (homage) dance, a neo-tribal homage of the islanders to their "anitos" (gods) in celebration of the triumph of Lapu-Lapu over Magellan. After the performances, the spouses were treated to a sumptuous lunch of native food, known locally as "Kumbera" (the feast) while a rondalla rendered famous Visayan songs. After lunch, the ASEAN spouses watched a cultural presentation of songs and dances, all distinctively Cebuanon and Mactanon and dating back to the pre-Hispanic era. The dance numbers included "Bulaklakan," a local version of young maidens' festive May Flower dance and the "Binagol" (coconut shell dance) showcasing the agility and skill of an all-male dancers performing to the beat and rhythm of coconut shells. The songs included "Lapu-Lapu," a love duet from the musical play version of "Kadaugan sa Mactan," "Inday," a brief musical excerpt from the famous Cebuano musical Zarzuela, "Inday Paabota Ko sa Langit" (Love, Wait for me in Heaven) sang by Cristina Sitoy, wife of Cordova Municipal Mayor Arliegh Sitoy, and Dr. Warfe Engracia; "Magkaisa" (unity), a Malaysian song, also by Engracia. Schoolchildren and other residents of Cebu also braved the rains to watch and welcome the guests of the Kadaugan. At 7 p.m. tonight, the First Gentleman is scheduled to host a formal dinner for the visiting ASEAN spouses at the "Malacanan sa Sugbo" (Malacanang in Cebu) to officially welcome them to Cebu. |
