Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday reaffirmed the Philippines' support to peace and stability, as well as the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. Marcos made the pronouncement during the ASEAN-Republic of Korea (ROK) Summit in Vientiane, Laos, which also commemorates the 35th anniversary of dialogue relations between the regional bloc and South Korea. In his intervention, Marcos said the Philippines looks to continuing collaborative efforts to promote peace and stability in the region, particularly through maritime safety, security, and the protection of marine environments. 'Allow me to reaffirm the Philippines' strong and steadfast support for the ROK position for lasting peace, security, and stability in a denuclearized Korean Peninsula. We also welcome ROK's efforts to promote peace and stability in the Korean Peninsula,' Marcos said. 'The 'Audacious Initiative' and the 'August 15 Unification Doctrine' are important efforts in this regard. We call upon the Democratic People's Republic of Korea to constructively respond and abide by the rule of international law,' he added. The President also welcomed the launch of the Comprehensive Strategic Partner initiative between the ASEAN and South Korea, which he said would result in increased ASEAN-ROK collaboration on various areas. He also acknowledged ROK's contributions to upskilling in the region through the ASEAN-ROK Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) for ASEAN Mobility (TEAM) Project to improve the quality of its systems, and enhance its resilience and adaptability to technological advancements, digitalization, health emergencies, and climate change. With regard to trade, the President said the review and upgrade of the ASEAN-Korea Free Trade Agreement (AKFTA) must focus on strengthening trade relations to ensure mutual growth and prosperity. 'The proposed upgraded AKFTA should not only facilitate greater market access, but also foster a more inclusive and dynamic economic partnership that will be to the benefit of all parties involved, including our micro, small, and medium enterprises, unlocking new opportunities for our businesses and our people,' he said. Source: Philippines News Agency