Romualdez urges ASEAN lawmakers to uphold rules-based order, support visionary legislation

Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez addressed ASEAN lawmakers on Monday, emphasizing the need to uphold a rules-based international order and empower citizens through visionary legislation.

Romualdez stressed the legislative body's critical role in securing peace, prosperity, and sovereignty for Southeast Asia during his speech at the 14th ASEAN Leaders Interface with AIPA in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

He highlighted the importance of upholding the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) to ensure maritime security and sovereignty.

Romualdez called for bold legislation that strengthens food security, renewable energy, digital infrastructure, cyber defense, and green growth, aligning with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s vision for a 'Bagong Pilipinas'.

The House Speaker reaffirmed the Philippine Congress' commitment to championing regional priorities through laws that support ASEAN's vision.

He urged lawmakers to act as bridge-builders across cultures and generations while advocating for dialogue and diplomacy in addressing geopolitical issues like Myanmar and the South China Sea.

Romualdez also noted the Philippines' upcoming AIPA Presidency in 2026, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation.