Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro delivered a powerful message to military veterans from 10 ASEAN countries, urging them to fortify regional solidarity through impactful initiatives and the formulation of clear action plans. In a speech before the Veterans Confederation of ASEAN Countries (Veconac), Teodoro emphasized the need for a cohesive alignment among veterans to ensure a prosperous and peaceful future for the region.
Teodoro highlighted the importance of defending territorial integrity and sovereignty, emphasizing that the region must stand united against threats to individual security. He cautioned that if one member of ASEAN’s security is threatened, it opens the door for further expansionism by unwanted actors.
He called on the delegates to promote strong multilateral cooperation and support a free and open region that respects the rule of law and resolves disputes peacefully. Teodoro emphasized the collective action of ASEAN’s peoples, respecting each other’s individual cultures and destinies, as the key to making the region the most prosperous and peaceful in the world.
Addressing the veterans, Teodoro acknowledged their role as symbols of those who fought for the liberation of their peoples from colonialism and hindrances to their aspirations. He recognized their efforts to provide a stable future for their children and grandchildren, emphasizing that their struggle serves as an example for future generations of ASEAN peoples and leaders.
The 35th Executive Board Meeting of the Veterans Confederation of ASEAN Countries was held at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza, with delegates from Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam in attendance. The meeting aimed to revise draft resolutions to be approved and adopted during the 22nd General Assembly.
Retired Philippine Air Force Maj. Gen. Romeo Alamillo, president of the Veterans Federation of the Philippines (VFP) and overall chairman of the organizing committee, highlighted the importance of the resolutions proposed and discussed during the 4th Working Committee Meeting. The agenda included organized visits to the ASEAN Secretariat, the commemoration of Veconac Founding Day, sustainability initiatives, the establishment of a business platform for economic cooperation among veteran businesspersons and businesses across the region, and greater involvement of women in the confederation.
The endorsed resolutions underscore the commitment of ASEAN’s veterans to promoting and defending regional peace and security, while actively ensuring the health and well-being of all veterans in the ASEAN community. The heads of delegation, including representatives from Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, and Laos, have played crucial roles in advancing the vision of Veconac.
Through the collective efforts of ASEAN’s veterans, the region can continue to strengthen its solidarity and work towards a brighter future. Their dedication and commitment serve as an inspiration for future generations, ensuring that the region’s prosperity and peace are safeguarded for years to come.
Source: The Manila Times
