5 decades of ASEAN, Japan relations lauded

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Sunday said that the 50 years of "harmonious relations" between Japan and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations members had made the future more promising.

During his intervention at the second session of the ASEAN-Japan Commemorative Summit, Marcos said the five-decade harmonious relations between ASEAN and Japan is a testament to their "friendship, trust, and shared concerns," which he sees as "the building blocks of peace and stability in our region."

"We look forward to ASEAN's and Japan's continued partnership beyond the 50th year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation," Marcos said.

"We have done much in the previous 50 years. I believe the future can even be brighter," Marcos added.

He also affirmed the Philippines' commitment to continuing and strengthening the ASEAN-Japan partnership beyond its golden anniversary.

Marcos also expressed his gratitude for Japan's ongoing support of initiatives like the Japan-East Asia Network of Exchange for Students and Youths and the "Sport for Tomorrow" program.

"The Philippines has a long history of cultural exchanges through JENESYS," Marcos said, highlighting the program's role in building lifelong bonds between young people from both regions.

He also commended Japan's "Sport for Tomorrow" initiative, which promotes sports awareness and inclusivity among ASEAN youth, including women and persons with disabilities.

Marcos further lauded the Japan-ASEAN Integrated Fund for its support of projects like the 2023-2025 ASEAN Cultural Heritage Digital Archives Project and the ASEAN Corner in Universities.

These projects, he emphasized, will enhance public access to ASEAN's rich cultural heritage, foster regional awareness, and strengthen the narrative of ASEAN identity.

"Our 'Heart to Heart' partnership is not just about cultural exchanges," Marcos stated.

"It's about promoting mutual understanding and cooperation between ASEAN and Japan," he added.

Looking ahead, Marcos said all of these initiatives will enhance public access to ASEAN's rich heritage, raise awareness, and strengthen the sense of a shared ASEAN identity.