PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan (PIA) -- The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) underscored the significant role of youth in ensuring the future of ASEAN during its 56th anniversary.

Sec. Enrique Manalo noted in a message that it is crucial that the voices of youth are heard and their inputs in policy and decision-making processes are taken into account. The number of youths located in ASEAN is expected to peak by 2038.

"Over the years, the Philippines has consistently endeavored to underscore the role of the youth in ensuring a bright future for ASEAN," Regional Consular Head Carolina Constantino read on behalf of Manalo.

The department also emphasized ASEAN Youth Biodiversity and the commemoration of ASEAN Youth in Climate Action and Disaster Resilience Day every November 25 as mechanisms to cultivate youth leadership in climate action and biodiversity loss.

Fellow ASEAN citizens were also encouraged to provide creative space and a platform to make their voices heard to help shape the future of ASEAN. Everyone can foster an environment that creates opportunities for sustainable growth and inclusive development across nations and peoples.

This year’s celebration was also aligned with Indonesia's chairmanship theme, "ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth." It highlighted the need for ASEAN to build an ASEAN-centered, inclusive, and resilient future to reaffirm its status as the epicenter of growth and prosperity, the department noted.

Aside from the Provincial Government of Palawan, academic institutions like Palawan State University, through the Transnational Education, International Affairs, and Linkages Office, and the College of Hospitality and Tourism Management, also expressed support for the ASEAN Month Celebration. (RPG/PIA Mimaropa - Palawan)