EU-ASEAN: Building a better future with the Philippines
While August has been described as a “Ghost Month,” for the EU, it is one special month as we welcome the Philippines as the Coordinator for the ASEAN-EU Dialogue Relations starting Aug. 9 for the three years to come......»»
Coast Guard ship Samudra Paheredar on overseas deployment to ASEAN nations, arrives in Philippines
Manila [Philippines], March 25 (ANI): India Coast Guard ship Samudra Paheredar, a specialized Pollution Control Vessel, reached Manila, Philippines on Monday, marking the commencement of its (overseas deployment) OSD mission to Association of Southeast Asian Nation (ASEAN) countries. ASEAN countries includes Brunei Darussalam, Burma, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, " acc.....»»
EAM Jaishankar discusses security, maritime cooperation with his Philippine counterpart in Manila
Manila [Philippines], March 26 (ANI): External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who is on an official visit to Manila, held a 'warm and productive' meeting with Philippines Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Enrique Manalo on Tuesday and discussed wide-ranging issues of security and maritime cooperation. During the meeting, both leaders exchanged views on global, regional, and multilateral issues, including Indo-Pacific, ASEAN,.....»»
Indian Coast Guard ship docks at Manila port amid tensions in South China Sea
Manila [Philippines], March 26 (ANI): Amid tensions in the South China Sea, the Indian Coast Guard ship, Samudra Paheredar docked at the Manila Bay in the Philippines as part of a broader initiative aimed at demonstrating ICG Marine Pollution Response capabilities, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) said in an official release on Tuesday. The ICG ship which arrived at the port on Monday, is on an overseas deployment to ASEAN c.....»»
Digital connectivity space tackled in amendments to National Building Code
A pending legislation at the House of Representatives amending the 47-year-old National Building Code of the Philippines would make it more responsive to the broadband connectivity demands of a digital economy, a citizen advocacy group said......»»
Coast Guard ship Samudra Paheredar on overseas deployment to ASEAN, arrives im Phillipines
Manila [Philippines], March 25 (ANI): India Coast Guard ship Samudra Paheredar, a specialized Pollution Control Vessel, reached Manila, Philippines on Monday, marking the commencement of its (overseas deployment) OSD mission to Association of Southeast Asian Nation (ASEAN) countries. ASEAN countries includes Brunei Darussalam, Burma, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, " acc.....»»
Coast Guard ship Samudra Paheredar on overseas deployment to ASEAN nations, arrives in Philippines
Manila [Philippines], March 25 (ANI): India Coast Guard ship Samudra Paheredar, a specialized Pollution Control Vessel, reached Manila, Philippines on Monday, marking the commencement of its (overseas deployment) OSD mission to Association of Southeast Asian Nation (ASEAN) countries. ASEAN countries includes Brunei Darussalam, Burma, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, " acc.....»»
Mission impossible: Embracing the nuclear ‘explosion’
A nuclear “explosion” of sorts could be on the horizon for the Philippines – one which could ensure a sustainable, sufficient and clean source of electricity for future generations, or one which could put the country in a deep hole......»»
DFA launches e-Apostille service; first in Asean region
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Foreign Affairs Office of Consular Affairs (DFA – OCA) announced that it launched an e-Apostille service for civil registry documents. DFA said the system will allow the public to apply online for e-documents and e-Apostilles from the Philippine Statistics Agency (PSA) without having to appear in both offices. Foreign Affairs.....»»
Top 10 e-commerce sites in the Philippines 2019 - ASEAN UP
With a dynamic economy and a large population proficient with digital technologies, the Philippines is a fast-growing market for e-commerce in Southeast Asia. Several websites and digital applications are already fighting for market share, with global, regional and national players. The growing connectivity of the Philippines, rapidly overcoming the countrys infrastructure difficulties, enable more and Continue reading &q.....»»
Extreme Heat as a ‘New Pandemic’: Thousands in PH Cancel Classes During ‘Hottest Year’
(Part 1 of 2) CEBU CITY, Philippines — The decades-old Gabaldon building of Leyte National High School in Tacloban City has narrow hallways, high and dark ceilings, and overcrowded classrooms. On hot and humid days, the rooms can feel stuffy and suffocating, prompting students like Dwight Lebrea, a 17-year-old Grade 12 student, to find ways.....»»
Balamban site is for road project, not Capitol bldg – Gwen
CEBU CITY, Philippines – The cleared site in Barangay Cambuhawe, Balamban, in western Cebu, is not for the new Capitol building, but for nationally funded road projects. Cebu Provincial Governor Gwen Garcia made this clarification after photos of a deforested mountain in Balamban, initially thought to be the site development of the new Capitol building,.....»»
Invest in MIF, PBBM urges Saudi bizmen
RIYADH, Saudi Arabia — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his economic managers portrayed a healthy and robust Philippine economy as he encouraged Saudi Arabian businessmen to participate in the nation’s recently established sovereign wealth fund, Malacañang said on Friday. In a statement, the Palace said Marcos pitched the Maharlika Investment Fund to Saudi business executives, hoping to gain from their investments and wealth of financial management know-how. “At the forefront of these opportunities is the recently launched Maharlika Investment Fund, the Philippines’ first-ever sovereign investment fund designed to drive long-term economic development through increased investments in high-impact sectors,” Marcos said. “We look forward to benefiting not just from Saudi investments but also from the Kingdom’s extensive experience in managing such funds,” he added. In response, Saudi Ministry of Investment Minister Khalid Al-Falih said Saudi investors are keen to learn from the Philippines’ financial sector. Al-Falih said the MIF was of particular relevance to the Saudi business community. “We want to connect you to key Saudi investors with impressive success stories to share and with the desire to continue building our international presence by investing with partners across the globe, the Philippines being a key one,” Al-Falih said. He added: I am pleased that we are joined today by leaders of the sector from Saudi Arabia who are eager to learn more about one of ASEAN’s most exciting markets and about the Maharlika Investment Fund that you have launched under your administration.” The Saudi government, he said, may provide information about their “extremely successful banking sector.” He applauded the Philippine government’s efforts to have a cashless society, one that uses mobile money as well, by 2030. The post Invest in MIF, PBBM urges Saudi bizmen appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Phl, Saudi agreements will benefit 15,000 Filipinos — Marcos
RIYADH, Saudi Arabia – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday said that several agreements worth more than $120 million between Saudi Arabia and the Philippines will benefit more than 15,000 Filipinos soon. During a roundtable meeting with Saudi business leaders here, Marcos said the agreements represent a significant step in strengthening the cooperation between the two countries. The agreements were signed during Marcos' first official visit to Saudi Arabia since assuming the Presidency in June 2022. The agreements cover a wide range of professions in the construction industry, including engineering, architecture, and healthcare. "This meeting happens at such an opportune time as the Philippine economy continues its high growth trajectory," the President said. "To our current and future business partners, I hope this meeting has served as an excellent platform for building greater and closer partnerships between the Philippines and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia," he added. He then thanked to the Saudi Ministry of Investment and the Saudi business leaders for their support and confidence in the Philippines and the Filipino people. Marcos Jr. assured that the Philippine government is steadfast in its commitment to continuously supporting current and prospective Saudi investors. He also urged the Saudi business leaders present at the meeting to "further make it happen in the Philippines." Marcos also thanked the Saudi government for its support to the Philippines. He said the two countries have a long history of friendship and partnership, and he is confident that this relationship will continue to grow in the years to come. The signing of the agreements is part of the Philippine government's efforts to expand job opportunities for the Filipinos. The government has also been working to improve the working conditions of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). In recent years, Saudi Arabia has become one of the most popular destinations for OFWs. There are currently over one million Filipinos living and working in the country. The President's visit to Saudi Arabia is part of his efforts to strengthen economic ties with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The Philippines is a member of the ASEAN-GCC Summit, which the Kingdom is currently hosting. The post Phl, Saudi agreements will benefit 15,000 Filipinos — Marcos appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Aboitiz Group bags triple Golden Arrow Awards
With a distinguished legacy spanning five generations, the Aboitiz Group remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering positive change in shaping the future as it adheres to the standards and requirements outlined in the ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard. This year, following the 2022 compliance period of the ACGS, Aboitiz Equity Ventures Inc. received a 4-arrow recognition after scoring 111.68 points, AEV’s highest ACGS score since the Institute of Corporate Directors inaugurated the Golden Arrow Awards in 2018. Aboitiz Power Corporation and Union Bank of the Philippines both received a 3-arrow recognition for scoring between 100 and 109 points. Consistent top performers It’s also important to note that AEV and AboitizPower have consistently been recognized as top performers in corporate governance, both here in the country and in the ASEAN region since 2013-2017 at the PSE Bell Awards. “This distinction is the result of the Aboitiz Group’s work to transform a legacy business into a hyper-innovative, diversified conglomerate that puts corporate governance and citizenship at the core of its operations. We have always believed that transparency and accountability are essential in building trust amongst our stakeholders and forging strong partnerships in order to drive change,” said Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar, Aboitiz Group’s chief reputation and sustainability officer. AEV, the portfolio management company of the Aboitiz Group, leads investments in diverse sectors including power, banking and financial services, food, infrastructure, land, and cutting-edge fields such as data science and artificial intelligence. The Group is presently undergoing a profound transformation to establish itself as the Philippines' first "techglomerate." This innovative growth strategy, fueled by technology and a renewed entrepreneurial mindset, empowers Aboitiz to drive transformative change, shaping the future of its businesses, host communities, and the nation. The Golden Arrow Recognition serves as a testament to Aboitiz Group's unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards of corporate governance. Aboitiz has excelled in several key areas such as compliance, sustainability, and innovation — positioning it as a frontrunner in the realm of corporate governance. This honor reflects the Group's ongoing commitment to creating value for its shareholders, stakeholders, and the broader Filipino community. Robust policies Aboitiz Group’s robust policies and procedures across every level of the organization form the bedrock of its commitment to excellence in corporate governance. Furthermore, the company's board of directors is characterized by its independence and diversity, playing a pivotal role in providing oversight and making strategic decisions aligned with the best interests of shareholders and stakeholders. Aboitiz places great emphasis on transparency, providing clear and comprehensive information regarding its financial performance, operations, and decision-making processes to ensure that shareholders and the public remain well-informed. In terms of regulatory compliance, Aboitiz is dedicated to adhering to all relevant laws, regulations, and standards related to corporate governance. The company continuously updates its policies to ensure alignment with evolving requirements. When it comes to ethical business practices, the Group's commitment to ethical conduct and integrity remains unwavering. “This award reaffirms the team’s adherence to the shared responsibility of sustainably managing the organization. This further motivates us to champion the highest corporate governance and ethical standards as we continue to grow the business,” said AboitizPower president and chief executive officer Emmanuel Rubio. “Likewise, we also exert as much effort and diligence in upholding environmental preservation and the societal good within the areas we have the privilege to serve,” he said. Corporate governance For his part, UnionBank lead independent director Roberto Manabat said, “We humbly accept this recognition as a reinforcement of the principles that guide the Bank. Our corporate governance practices reinforce the requirements of a constantly evolving business landscape. We ensure that they comply with new regulations and are ready to adopt best practices.” Aboitiz is deeply committed to sustainability and corporate social responsibility initiatives. The post Aboitiz Group bags triple Golden Arrow Awards appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Aboitiz Group bags triple Golden Arrow Awards
With a distinguished legacy spanning five generations, the Aboitiz Group remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering positive change in shaping the future as it adheres to the standards and requirements outlined in the ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard. This year, following the 2022 compliance period of the ACGS, Aboitiz Equity Ventures, Inc. received a 4-arrow recognition after scoring 111.68 points, AEV’s highest ACGS score since the Institute of Corporate Directors inaugurated the Golden Arrow Awards in 2018. Aboitiz Power Corporation and Union Bank of the Philippines both received a 3-arrow recognition for scoring between 100 and 109 points. AEV and AboitizPower have consistently been recognized as top performers in corporate governance, both here in the country and in the ASEAN region since 2013-2017 at the PSE Bell Awards. “This distinction is the result of the Aboitiz Group’s work to transform a legacy business into a hyper-innovative, diversified conglomerate that puts corporate governance and citizenship at the core of its operations. We have always believed that transparency and accountability are essential in building trust amongst our stakeholders and forging strong partnerships in order to drive change,” said Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar, Aboitiz Group’s chief reputation and sustainability officer. AEV, the portfolio management company of the Aboitiz Group, leads investments in diverse sectors including power, banking and financial services, food, infrastructure, land and cutting-edge fields such as data science and artificial intelligence. The Group is presently undergoing a profound transformation to establish itself as the Philippines' first "techglomerate." This innovative growth strategy, fueled by technology and a renewed entrepreneurial mindset, empowers Aboitiz to drive transformative change, shaping the future of its businesses, host communities and the nation. The Golden Arrow Recognition serves as a testament to Aboitiz Group's unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards of corporate governance. Aboitiz has excelled in several key areas such as compliance, sustainability, and innovation – positioning it as a frontrunner in the realm of corporate governance. This honor reflects the Group's ongoing commitment to creating value for its shareholders, stakeholders, and the broader Filipino community. Aboitiz Group’s robust policies and procedures across every level of the organization form the bedrock of its commitment to excellence in corporate governance. Furthermore, the company's board of directors is characterized by its independence and diversity, playing a pivotal role in providing oversight and making strategic decisions aligned with the best interests of shareholders and stakeholders. Aboitiz places great emphasis on transparency, providing clear and comprehensive information regarding its financial performance, operations, and decision-making processes to ensure that shareholders and the public remain well-informed. In terms of regulatory compliance, Aboitiz is dedicated to adhering to all relevant laws, regulations, and standards related to corporate governance. The company continuously updates its policies to ensure alignment with evolving requirements. When it comes to ethical business practices, the Group's commitment to ethical conduct and integrity remains unwavering. The company adheres to a stringent code of conduct that guides the behavior of its employees, fostering an environment of trust and integrity. “This award reaffirms the team’s adherence to the shared responsibility of sustainably managing the organization. This further motivates us to champion the highest corporate governance and ethical standards as we continue to grow the business,” said AboitizPower president and chief executive officer Emmanuel Rubio. “Likewise, we also exert as much effort and diligence in upholding environmental preservation and the societal good within the areas we have the privilege to serve.” “We humbly accept this recognition as a reinforcement of the principles that guide the Bank. Our corporate governance practices reinforce the requirements of a constantly evolving business landscape. We ensure that they comply with new regulations and are ready to adopt best practices,” said UnionBank lead independent director Roberto Manabat. Aboitiz is deeply committed to sustainability and corporate social responsibility initiatives. The company actively pursues environmental and social responsibility, demonstrating its dedication to creating a positive impact on society and the environment. The post Aboitiz Group bags triple Golden Arrow Awards appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Regional groups promote linkages
To link business owners, the Management Association of the Philippines had sealed a partnership with two other ASEAN business organizations. During MAP’s international CEO Conference last week, the group president, Benedicta Du-Baladad, sealed a memorandum of partnership and cooperation with the Singapore International Chamber of Commerce and the Thailand Management Association. Singaporean SICC chairperson Bicky Bhangu and TMA president Nithi Patarachoke signed the MPC with Baladad, witnessed by the ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn who delivered the keynote address during the Conference, George Barcelon, a Philippines representative to the ASEAN Business Advisory Council, and Ambassador Tull Traisorat of Thailand. Deeper business linkages as goal The MPC seeks to deepen business linkages within the region and assure its active cooperation in the goal towards ASEAN centrality, described as “the primary driving force in its relations and cooperation with its external partners.” Aside from sharing best management practices, the partnership aims to pursue mutually beneficial partnerships within the region through undertaking education, information activities, and training programs that can enhance the knowledge and skills of management practitioners and future leaders, and advocate for reforms that will improve the ease of doing business in the ASEAN region. “The future of integration in ASEAN should be characterized by strong partnerships, development driven by innovation, as well as an inclusive approach that gives priority to the people,” Secretary-General of ASEAN Dr. Hourn emphasized in his keynote speech. The partnership initiated by MAP can potentially open the gateway for exploring direct business opportunities among companies in the region and take advantage of the benefits of trade liberalization. Since the members of each of these organizations are already known, it can shorten the process of looking for partners and directly engaging those already involved in the industries of interest. “The bottom line is recovery and growth — and these two are shared goals that can transcend shifting alliances. By enabling these linkages at the business and industry level, we can bypass the bureaucratic impediments and go straight to building partnerships and forging long-term relationships,” Baladad explained. The post Regional groups promote linkages appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
The vital role of ASEAN
The ASEAN-UN Comprehensive Partnership is more important than ever. We face tests as far as the eye can see — from the climate emergency to a global cost-of-living crisis, raging conflicts and growing poverty, hunger, and inequalities. All these challenges are aggravated by rising geopolitical tensions. There is a real risk of fragmentation — of a Great Fracture in world economic and financial systems, with diverging strategies on technology and artificial intelligence and conflicting security frameworks. I commend ASEAN for your vital role in building bridges of understanding all over the world. ASEAN has played an extremely important role as a center that convenes all those that, unfortunately, represent the most dramatic divisions in today’s world and these series of summits is a demonstration of that fundamental convening role of ASEAN. And we need it in a world that is increasingly multipolar and that requires strong multilateral institutions to go with it — based on equity, solidarity and universality. I am grateful for your steadfast support for multilateral solutions and your contribution of over 5,000 peacekeepers from ASEAN countries. ASEAN’s convening power, commitment to dialogue and experience in conflict prevention are crucial pillars of stability. Today, tensions remain high from the Korean Peninsula to the South China Sea. I am grateful to ASEAN member states for your pursuit of dialogue and peaceful dispute resolution, rooted in the respect for international law, including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. Since we gathered last year, the situation in Myanmar has further deteriorated. Brutal violence, worsening poverty and systematic repression are crushing hopes for a return to democracy. The conflict is exacerbating existing inequalities and vulnerabilities faced by women and girls, including sexual violence, forced marriage and human trafficking. More and more people are crossing borders in a desperate search for safety and protection and the situation is untenable. Over one million Rohingya remain in Bangladesh, in the world’s largest refugee camp. And, regrettably, the conditions for their safe, voluntary and dignified return are not yet in sight. Much more is needed. My call to the military authorities of Myanmar is clear: Free all detained leaders and political prisoners; open the door toward the full restoration of democratic rule. We must also end our assault against the planet. ASEAN ranks amongst the most biodiversity-rich regions — and is highly vulnerable to natural disasters. We can still limit the worst impacts and meet the goals of the Paris Agreement. ASEAN is uniquely positioned to be a leader of an energy transition that is global, sustainable, just, inclusive and equitable. I commend ASEAN member states that are pioneering Just Energy Transition Partnerships like Indonesia and Viet Nam. And I commend all who are accelerating the phaseout of coal and jumpstarting a fair and inclusive renewables revolution. But greater ambition is needed still — along with much greater support. Developed countries must finally deliver on their commitments to developing countries. Resources are also central to rescuing the Sustainable Development Goals. I have called for deep and structural changes to make global frameworks — including the Bretton Woods system — more representative of today’s economic and political realities and also more responsive. Such change will not happen overnight — and I have proposed concrete steps we can take now, including an SDG Stimulus of US$500 billion a year to the benefit of developing countries for them to be able to reach the Sustainable Goals. This and other action would catalyze SDG progress and help developing economies invest in key transitions across energy, food systems, digital, education, health, decent jobs and social protection. I count on ASEAN member states to help raise global ambition in the vital months ahead. And you can always count on my wholehearted support to shape a future of peace and prosperity for the people of Southeast Asia and the world. *** Excerpts from the UN Secretary-General’s remarks at the ASEAN-UN Summit, 7 September 2023. The post The vital role of ASEAN appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Building up our Asean big brotherhood
The ASEAN Business Investment Summit (BIS) last week turned out quite well......»»
ASEAN leaders agree on 5PC to address Myanmar crisis
JAKARTA, Indonesia – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday called for the complete implementation of the Five-Point Consensus (5PC) in Myanmar, a set of principles agreed upon by the Association of the Southeast Asian Nation leaders in April 2021 to address the political crisis in the country. Speaking at the 18th East Asia Summit (EAS) here, Marcos said that the Philippines believes that the key to any solution in Myanmar is the inclusive participation of all parties. He also reiterated the Philippines' support for the Special Envoy of ASEAN in pushing the Five-Point Consensus forward. "We maintain that endeavors by other parties to address the crisis should support and complement ASEAN's efforts, and should be done in consultation with the ASEAN Chair," Marcos said. The Five-Point Consensus calls for an immediate cessation of violence, constructive dialogue among all parties, an inclusive political process, the appointment of a Special Envoy of ASEAN, and the provision of humanitarian assistance. Marcos also called for the urgent realization of the Loss and Damage Fund (LDF) to help countries address the impacts of climate change. He said that countries with the smallest carbon footprints disproportionately bear the heaviest burden of climate change. "Climate financing, complemented by viable and effective technology transfer and country-specific capacity-building, is needed to expedite a just transition to a climate-resilient economy," Marcos said. He also sought the support of other EAS leaders for the development of the Philippines' strategic minerals supply and value chains. He said that this would boost the Philippines' efforts to ensure a resilient and sustainable future for the region. Marcos concluded his intervention by reaffirming the Philippines' commitment to an open and inclusive regional order where the rule of law and ASEAN Centrality remain the bedrock of an evolving regional architecture. The East Asia Summit is a regional forum held annually by leaders of, initially, 16 countries in the East Asian, Southeast Asian, South Asian, and Oceanian regions, based on the ASEAN Plus Six mechanism. Membership expanded to 18 countries including Russia and the United States at the Sixth EAS in 2011. The post ASEAN leaders agree on 5PC to address Myanmar crisis appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
SCS conflict, bigger ASEAN problem
As Southeast Asian leaders gather in Jakarta for their regional summit, fears have been raised over the bloc getting dragged into big-power rivalry as they seek to dispel worries about rifts over peace efforts in Myanmar and to reaffirm the relevance of their disparate group. No less than Indonesian President Joko Widodo, opening the summit of the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations Tuesday called on the members to devise a “long-term tactical strategy that is relevant and meets people’s expectations.” He said ASEAN has agreed not to be a proxy for any powers. “Don’t turn our ship into an arena for rivalry that is destructive,” he warned in his opening remarks. Founded at the height of the Cold War in the 1960s to oppose the spread of communism, the politically diverse grouping prioritizes unity and non-interference in members’ internal affairs. But that is easier said than done. While they may be too concerned over rifts in the peace efforts in Myanmar, a bigger problem, probably as big as the South China Sea, looms over their heads. The disputed waterway, a region rich in resources and of strategic importance, has been a focal point of tension and disputes among various nations for decades. In the event of conflict erupting in the South China Sea, ASEAN will find itself facing complex challenges and crucial decisions. Before delving into ASEAN’s role in a potential South China Sea conflict, it is essential to understand the complexities of the disputes in the region. Multiple claimants, including China, Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan, assert sovereignty over various islands, reefs, and waters in the South China Sea. These overlapping territorial claims have created an atmosphere of tension, with incidents of naval confrontations, militarization of islands, and increased military presence. While several attempts have been made to address these disputes through diplomatic means, the situation remains precarious. ASEAN’s core principles include the promotion of peace, stability, and prosperity in the region through diplomatic dialogue, non-interference in internal affairs, and consensus-based decision-making. The regional bloc has demonstrated a commitment to the peaceful resolution of conflicts. The 2002 ASEAN-China Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea or DOC and subsequent efforts to negotiate a legally binding Code of Conduct or CoC with China reflect this commitment. ASEAN’s role, therefore, is primarily that of a mediator and facilitator of negotiations aimed at reducing tensions and preventing the escalation of conflicts. But what if a conflict erupts in the South China Sea? Would ASEAN uphold its fundamental principles, particularly the peaceful resolution of disputes, to prevent the outbreak of full-scale hostilities? Would it engage in shuttle diplomacy, urging all parties to exercise restraint and explore diplomatic solutions? This is where ASEAN’s role as a platform for regional dialogue becomes crucial. It should intensify diplomatic efforts to facilitate negotiations between the involved parties. This can include organizing summits, dialogues, and confidence-building measures to foster an environment conducive to resolving disputes peacefully. Furthermore, ASEAN should encourage adherence to international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea or UNCLOS. By promoting respect for international norms, ASEAN can help maintain order and deter any unilateral actions that could lead to a military confrontation. While ASEAN has the potential to play a constructive role in mitigating conflict, several challenges could hinder its effectiveness. One such challenge is the divergent interests and allegiances among ASEAN member states. Some nations may be more inclined to side with external powers, like the United States or China, depending on their strategic interests and alliances. Maintaining ASEAN’s unity in the face of external pressures will be a considerable challenge. Another challenge is the historical reluctance of some ASEAN members to confront China directly due to economic ties or political considerations. Balancing economic interests with regional security concerns will require skillful diplomacy and could strain ASEAN’s cohesion. Moreover, the absence of a legally binding CoC in the South China Sea complicates ASEAN’s efforts to manage conflicts. The negotiations for such an agreement have been protracted, and there is no guarantee of a successful outcome. ASEAN must navigate these challenges while advocating for a peaceful resolution. In the event of conflict in the South China Sea, therefore, ASEAN’s role would be pivotal in preventing further escalation and facilitating a peaceful resolution. Unless it wants to erase its image as a mere talk shop, the regional bloc should address this issue now while there is time. Otherwise, it might be too late. The post SCS conflict, bigger ASEAN problem appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»