Philippines to host ASEAN Maritime Center - DFA

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The ASEAN Maritime Center is set to be established in the Philippines, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) announced on Saturday.

DFA Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro made the announcement during a press briefing at the International Media Center in Pasay City.

"During the foreign ministers' meeting, we adopted the concept note. The terms of reference of the ASEAN Maritime Center will be based in the Philippines," Lazaro said.

"We haven't really decided all the other issues concerning this, but this is a very important result of our chairship," she added.

Lazaro said the center will serve as a knowledge hub and support platform for maritime-related initiatives and issues, in line with the priorities identified by ASEAN member states.

"It involves issues on port authorities. It involves the whole gamut of the blue economy," she said.

In a previous statement, Lazaro underscored the need to strengthen maritime security and cooperation among ASEAN member states. —VBL, GMA News