The “tremendous success” of the ASEAN summit has no precedent. When the dust settled after the event, the 10 out of 11 ASEAN agreements achieved were a milestone, and the “restoration” of relationships in the South China Sea proved valuable outcomes for a regional grouping that has grown anxious about tensions along these vital sea lanes.
For the country, the numerous bilateral agreements between the Philippines and other major countries, including New Zealand show how valuable the relationship with the Philippines has become. A higher level of cooperation has come upon us.
Of course, there were the selfies that were ubiquitous spread the event beyond the corridors of policymakers and entered the daily consciousness of hundreds of thousands through their cellphones and computer screens.
After the event, government morale and business sentiment is buoyed by the event, as new contacts to bring business were made, and numerous tourists flocked to Metro Manila.
Many have noted that as chairman of ASEAN, President Duterte brought his trademark straight talk and pragmatic, results oriented leadership honed in decades of fixing a tumultuous Davao.
His being from Mindanao may have given him that added credibility among movers Indonesia and Malaysia, which have always rooted for a bigger role for Mindanao in Philipine affairs.
He not only engaged ASEAN and the world, he engaged many common Filipinos for whom the regional grouping, much less its political and economic significance in an “Asianizing” world was barely known.
Nonetheless, there were those who chose to criticize. This being the Philippines, their dissents were heard.
However, not many listened. But this being a democracy, people have the freedom to choose who they want to listen to, believe and support. They have exercised their choice.
With this, an engaged public awaits the benefits of these diplomatic milestones. Driven by their near constant presence online, expect more vigilance and engagement.
