Delegates from the Department of National Defense (DND) represented the Philippines at the 18th ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) on Wednesday in Lao PDR.
DND Undersecretary for Strategic Assessment and Planning, Usec. Ignacio B. Madriaga, attended the gathering on behalf of the Philippines.
“The theme of the 18th ADMM, ‘ASEAN: Together for Peace, Security and Resilience,’ resonates as we face a critical juncture in our history, with widening polarities and sharpening strategic fault lines,” Usec. Madriaga stated in his speech, emphasizing the importance of regional unity amid growing security challenges.
The defense official expressed the Philippines’ support for key regional initiatives, including the Maritime Cooperation and Connectivity Conference, which is the first activity to implement the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific from a defense perspective.
“As a maritime nation, the Philippines underscores the value of deepening conversations with ASEAN’s partners and friends to uphold conditions for good order at sea,” he said.
“We look forward to constructive discussions and meaningful cooperation that will strengthen ASEAN’s collective peace, security, and resilience,” he added.
Usec. Madriaga also expressed his appreciation to the various ASEAN members who extended their assistance to the Philippines during the recent typhoons that affected large areas of the country.
