KUALA LUMPUR — House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez urged fellow ASEAN lawmakers to uphold international maritime law and safeguard regional waters during the 14th ASEAN Leaders Interface with AIPA (ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly).
Addressing leaders and parliamentarians, Romualdez emphasized the legislative role in fostering regional peace, economic growth, and maritime sovereignty. He called for unified action to transform ASEAN’s shared goals into impactful legislation that supports workers, farmers, and fisherfolk while enhancing digital connectivity and defending a rules-based order.
Romualdez specifically cited the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) as essential to maintaining peace and security in Southeast Asia’s seas.
He also highlighted the importance of responsive yet visionary lawmaking, pointing to initiatives in food security, renewable energy, cybersecurity, digital infrastructure, and inclusive economic growth.
Stressing that ASEAN lawmakers are not just policy creators but also cultural bridge-builders, he reaffirmed the Philippine Congress’ commitment to supporting regional integration and sustainability goals.
AIPA echoed support for peace and adherence to international law, advocating for continued diplomacy in addressing regional challenges, including those in the South China Sea, Myanmar, Gaza, and Ukraine. It also encouraged stronger legislative backing for digital integration, green technology, and sustainable investment.