26-05-2025
Romualdez to ASEAN solons: Protect our seas
KUALA LUMPUR — Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez on Monday called on ASEAN lawmakers to uphold the rules-based international order and protect the region's seas.
Speaking before heads of state and parliamentary leaders at the 14th ASEAN Leaders Interface with Representatives of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA), Romualdez stressed the legislative's critical role in securing peace, prosperity, and regional sovereignty.
'We must move as one — translating ASEAN's collective aspirations into concrete policies that empower our workers, farmers, and fisherfolks, protect our seas, connect our digital economies, and defend the rules-based international order,' the House Speaker said.
'This includes upholding the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea or UNCLOS, which guarantees peace, security, and sovereignty for all,'' he added.
The regional peace and prosperity hinge on the steadfast observance of international law amid growing global polarization and external threats to maritime integrity. according to the House Speaker.
As the leader of Congress' lower chamber, Romualdez said he has ensured that Philippine legislation should not just be responsive, but visionary.
It must be catalytic, not just reactive, Romualdez emphasized.
The House Speaker reaffirmed the Philippine Congress' full commitment to championing regional priorities through laws that will strengthen food security, renewable energy, digital infrastructure, cyber defense, and green, inclusive growth.
'We believe the role of AIPA is not only to support ASEAN's vision — but to shape it — boldly and bravely,' he said.
The solon from Leyte further urged ASEAN lawmakers to embrace their role not only as policymakers but also as bridge-builders across cultures and generations. —RF, GMA Integrated News
