PALO, Leyte – The Association of Southeast Asian Nation (ASEAN) marks its 55th years of existing on August 8, 2022. The ASEAN is one of the most successful regional blocks in today’s world.

Fifty-five (55) years ago, the ASEAN started its journey from Bangkok with the signing of the ASEAN Declaration (Bangkok Declaration) by the Founding Fathers of ASEAN, namely Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand.

Brunei Darussalam then joined on 7 January 1984, Viet Nam on 28 July 1995, Lao PDR and Myanmar on 23 July 1997, and Cambodia on 30 April 1999, making up what is today the ten Member States of ASEAN.

ASEAN symbolizes the spirit of solidarity and peaceful, prosperous, and socially responsible ASEAN Community. The theme of this year’s ASEAN Day is “Stronger Together” that invites and welcomes the forward-minded people of ASEAN to come in synchronization and work as a collective to face the challenges of 21st Century (The Economic Times, 2022).

Established in August 1967 with the purpose of accelerating the economic growth, social progress, and cultural development in the region, and promoting regional peace and stability. It has become one of the most important players in the global trading system. It is now the world’s fifth largest economy and plays a central role in the so-called “Factory Asia”.

Its establishment is as one of the most highly integrated regional organizations is the reflection of the process of globalization. This high integration is characterized by international cooperation in economic, social, and political policies.

It has negotiated a free trade agreement among member states and with other countries such as China, as well as eased travel in the region for citizens of member countries.

The ASEAN contributes to the advancement of the Philippines as a whole. With the incredible support from other Southeast Asian nations, the country is better prepared for globalization.

The Philippines has benefited from a substantial increase in trade and investments with its economic integration which created a wide choice of goods for consumers thus supporting local businesses to expand overseas. #RNPC-CPD