08 August 201 – The Philippine Embassy in Switzerland held a ceremony today to commemorate the 51^st anniversary of the founding of ASEAN.

Ambassador Denis Yap Leptan delivers his remarks during an event at the Embassy commemorating the 51^st anniversary

of the founding of ASEAN.

In his remarks, Ambassador Denis Yap Lepatan noted the rich and proud history of ASEAN and how these hold the ten (10) Southeast Asian countries together in times of peace and disasters in spite of the challenges that each ASEAN Member State (AMS) face. He stressed that our differences in history, religion, culture, and political setup among others are not hindrances to our cooperation.

Ambassador Lepatan said, “ASEAN is a good reminder of what unity and teamwork can bring, and what political will can achieve.”

As a founding member of ASEAN along with Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand, the Philippines remains an active member committed to doing its part in realizing the goals and visions of ASEANmaking the region strong and resilient. In 2017, during ASEAN’s 50^th anniversary, the Philippines served as its Chair. END