Solons push stronger regional cooperation at APPU meeting in Tokyo

Philippine lawmakers called for stronger cooperation among Asia-Pacific countries as they joined parliamentarians from across the region at the 54th General Assembly and 88th Council Meeting of the Asian-Pacific Parliamentarians’ Union (APPU) in Tokyo.

Pangasinan 4th District Rep. Gina de Venecia, chairperson of the House Committee on Inter-Parliamentary Relations and Diplomacy, is among the Philippine delegates to the three-day meeting from 24 to 26 August.

The delegation also includes Deputy Speaker Rachel Arenas, Pangasinan 3rd District representative, and Reps. Linabelle Villarica, Ma. Alana Samantha Santos and Emigdio Tanjuatco.

In her opening remarks, De Venecia said stronger regional cooperation is needed as Asia-Pacific countries confront geopolitical tensions, climate change, cyber threats, economic uncertainty, and disruptions in trade and supply chains.

She said the Philippines’ resilience must be reinforced through stronger partnerships, regional cooperation and greater trust among nations.

De Venecia also cited reforms aimed at improving the country’s business and investment climate, including the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, the Ease of Doing Business Act, and amendments to the Foreign Investments Act and Public Service Act.

She highlighted government support for micro, small and medium enterprises through digitalization, improved logistics, financing and greater market access.

Arenas, for her part, said Philippine lawmakers have a responsibility to work with their counterparts across the Asia-Pacific on issues that transcend national borders.

She called for stronger parliamentary cooperation and solidarity, closer coordination on shared security concerns, and a free, open and resilient regional economic order.

Arenas also underscored the importance of people-to-people ties in strengthening relations among countries in the region.

She said economic disruptions and security threats cannot be effectively addressed by countries acting alone, underscoring the importance of regional parliamentary platforms such as the APPU in advancing cooperation.

The Philippine lawmakers also emphasized the role of parliaments in shaping policies on trade, investment, energy and climate action, while promoting accountability in the use of public funds and protecting citizens’ interests.

De Venecia urged APPU members to strengthen the exchange of legislation, policy initiatives and best practices among member parliaments.

The three-day APPU gathering focuses on inter-parliamentary cooperation, economic stability and regional supply chain resilience, providing a venue for lawmakers to discuss shared challenges and deepen regional partnerships.