Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — President Benigno Aquino III brought home good news when he arrived Friday morning (February 19) from the two-day U.S.-Asean Summit in California, USA.
In his arrival speech, he talked about the “clear and overwhelming” support among ASEAN leaders and the U.S., ensuring maritime security in the South China Sea.
During the summit, all leaders agreed to resolve territorial disputes in a peaceful manner.
“Dapat panatalihin ang seguridad, estabilidad, at kalayaang maglakbay sa West Philippine Sea at South China Sea; at dapat idaan sa mapayapang proseso ang pagresolba ng anumang alitan, alinsunod sa international law,” Aquino said.
[Translation: “Security, stability, and freedom to travel in the West Philippine Sea and South China Sea must be upheld. Resolving disputes must go through a peaceful process, in accordance to international law.”]
Also read: Aquino takes part in U.S.-ASEAN leaders’ conference
Aquino also said big companies in Los Angeles have expressed interest in investing in the Philippines.
Officials from Walt Disney will be visiting the country this year, and tech companies Western Digital and AECOM also plan to expand their services here.
“Kinikilala po nila ang talento ng Pilipino sa mga larangang ito, na tumataas sa tinatawag na value chain,” the president said.
[Translation: “They recognize Filipino talent in these fields, which are increasing in the value chain.”]
The president also signed the executive order for the wage hike of government employees.
CNN Philippines’ Patricia De Leon contributed to this report.
