NAIA Terminal II, Pasay City
15 February 2016

President Benigno S. Aquino III departed for the United States of America to attend the Special Summit between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the US upon the invitation of President Barack Obama.

In his remarks, President Aquino said that the summit is set to make way for the further strengthening of the Strategic Partnership between the ASEAN community and the US. He cited America’s vital contribution in maintaining peace, stability, and security across the region, particularly on issues concerning the West Philippine Sea. Moreover, the President will take the opportunity to discuss in the meeting with his fellow ASEAN leaders his position on the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL), which he believes is the solution to end the conflict in Mindanao.

Likewise, the President will have a Working Visit to Los Angeles, California, where he is invited to speak before the members of the Los Angeles World Affairs Council (LAWAC). He will also take this opportunity to boost investments for the country by encouraging foreign businessmen and investors to consider the growing economy of the Philippines. He is optimistic that his visit to the US will generate good news that will benefit the whole nation.

“Paalis pa lang po tayo pero sabik na rin ako sa ating pag-uwi, dahil siguradong bitbit natin ang mga bagong oportunidad at good news para sa ating mga Boss. Makakaasa po kayo na gaya ng lagi, sa pakikipag-daupang-palad natin sa ating mga kapwa pinuno, buong pagmamalaki nating ihahayag kung gaano nang katayog ang narating ng Pilipinas, at ang lumalakas pa nating kakayahang makipagsabayan sa buong mundo,” President Aquino said.

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