House Speaker Martin Romualdez on Monday issued a powerful call to action for Southeast Asian lawmakers: defend the rules-based international order, empower citizens, and lead the transformation of ASEAN through bold and visionary legislation.
Speaking before heads of state and parliamentary leaders at the 14th ASEAN Leaders Interface with Representatives of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Center in Malaysia, Romualdez emphasized the critical role of legislative institutions 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 leader of the 306-strong House of Representatives 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.”
Romualdez emphasized that regional peace and prosperity hinge on the steadfast observance of international law, especially amid growing global polarization and external threats to maritime integrity.
The Speaker said under the leadership of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the Philippines is forging a “Bagong Pilipinas” anchored on unity, innovation, and inclusivity—a national agenda that aligns closely with ASEAN’s own goals.
“As Speaker of the House, I have made it my mission to ensure that our legislation is not just responsive — but visionary. Not just reactive — but catalytic,” he said.
He reaffirmed the Philippine Congress’ full commitment to championing regional priorities through laws that 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 declared.
Romualdez urged ASEAN lawmakers to embrace their role not only as policymakers but also as bridge-builders across cultures and generations.
“As parliamentarians, we are not just lawmakers; we are bridge-builders across nations, generations, and ideologies. And it is our duty to ensure that this region remains a bastion of peace, prosperity, and shared progress.”
The meeting marked a milestone in ASEAN–AIPA cooperation, as the Philippines prepares to assume the AIPA Presidency in 2026. This coincides with the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation—a symbolic moment for deepening legislative collaboration across Southeast Asia.
“I commit to a leadership that is principled, progressive, and deeply collaborative,” Romualdez said. “We will work closely with Malaysia and all AIPA members to ensure a smooth transition and a legacy of momentum, not inertia.”
The Speaker concluded his message with a rallying call to shape the future of the region—not merely adapt to it.
“Our region cannot afford to be passive in a world that is increasingly polarized. The true measure of leadership is not what we preserve — but what we build,” Romualdez declared.
“Together, let us build a region that is not only prepared for the future — but determined to shape it.”
Editor’s Note: This story has been updated.
