Toast of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte during the Gala Dinner of the 30th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit
Toast of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte during the Gala Dinner of the 30th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit |
Grand Ballroom, Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila |
29 April 2017 |
I do not mean to be discourteous but I think this would be the 8th speech that I delivered today and… [laughter and applause] I’m trying to save my strength of the mouth because I might not be able to chew my food. [laughter] Your Majesty, Excellencies, friends, ladies and gentlemen, it is an honor and pleasure to host all of you tonight. After a very productive day of open discussions, sharing inputs and exchanging of views, we are about to enjoy a sumptuous feast and lovely performances, a showcase of Filipino hospitality. We consider all of you not just as our neighbors but friends but also our brothers and sisters. We are all proud of the diversity of our culture and history. Bound as we are by common vision and shared aspirations in this fraternal bond that continues to unite and inspire us to partner for change and to engage the world. In many ways, tonight’s dinner can be considered a family gathering. In the Philippines as in any other ASEAN country, family reunions are always a joyous occasion for fellowship and hospitality. On this note, I wish to offer… Kindly hold your, if you have… I would like to propose a toast. Water would do. [laughter] To the unity, centrality, solidarity and continued success of ASEAN; To peace and stability in the region and continued growth of our economies; To the enduring friendship between our nations; And to the positive change in the lives of our people. Mabuhay! —END— |