The ASEAN Summit accomplishments
We did predict before the start of the ASEAN Summit, (and events confirmed our predictions), that it was all a grand socializing and the output would be nothing but motherhood statements. But we hastened to interject that it was a summit still worth all the efforts, time, and expenses. For, in a world rocked by constant terrorism and endless conflicts, it is good for world peace, for global harmony and regional stability, that the big and small players in geopolitics come together and break bread at the same table, listen to each other in translated speeches, and dine as a small family of national leaders over native foods and champagne, bewitched and captivated by dances and songs that convey messages of love, tolerance, and forgiveness.
We did foretell also that the summit would not solve the standoff in the South China Sea, or what we refer to as the West Philippine Sea. Nonetheless, the Chinese responded positively to the gesture of President Duterte that the Philippines would not declare war against China. Well, of course, to use a little hyperbole, it was like the squirrel assuring the mountain that it would not be harmed, or the mouse promising not to attack the elephant. The summit was worth it because President Trump did succeed in egging President Duterte to sing "Ikaw'' following the classic Pilita in her fabled bodily backward bending stance. "Ikaw" was of course, a promise to the Americans that the Filipinos' love is for the US alone. But China and Russia were listening and they had translators.
The summit was also a success because all ten ASEAN nations signed the accord for migrant workers. Although another motherhood statement, the document does assure upholding fair treatment of all migrant workers, regardless of gender and nationality. It assures visitation rights by family members, prohibits the confiscation of passports and prevents overcharging of recruitment and placement fees. It assures just and humane treatment of workers, fair compensation and the right to join trade unions. It also protects them from sexual harassment and abuses. Above all, the document condemns illegal recruitment and trafficking.
On the lighter side, the summit showed that the Philippines is a beautiful country and ASEAN members should join the Chinese, Koreans, and Japanese who are currently making Philippine tourism a rich source of dollars for our economy. The barong has received positive reviews especially when modeled by Canada's Prime Minister Trudeau, and Donald Trump himself. They love our Philippine foods and were enthralled by our songs and dances. It was a grand pageantry showing the Philippines' best.
At the end of the day, the biggest winner was President Duterte's partner who was given the honor to toast champagne with Trump, Putin, and all the other world and regional leaders. It showed the world that the only Catholic ASEAN member-nation is a paragon of tolerance and pragmatism. Also that Isabel Lopez episode in EDSA was a perfect example that the Filipinos gifted with that spirit to break away from the crowd and be applauded for it.
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