June 12, 2025 I Boracay – UCLG ASPAC, under the framework of the ASEAN Governors and Mayors Forum (AGMF), formerly known as AMF, organised a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) with local leaders from ASEAN Member States, and partner organisations to explore how ASEAN Community Vision 2045 can be implemented at the local level. The results of the discussion will be shared at the AGMF and MGMAC meetings from August 12 to 14, 2025. The FGD took place on June 12, 2025, held alongside the UCLG ASPAC Executive Bureau Meeting. It started with an overview of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 by Ambassador Elizabeth Buensuceso, followed by panel discussions based on each of the existing pillars, the ASEAN Political-Security Community (APSC), the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), and the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC), and one additional pillar on ASEAN Connectivity.
Insights from the Panel Discussions:
1. Localising the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) Strategic Plan
- Mayor Suzette Mamon of Badiangan, Philippines, highlighted the need to invest in women-led communities, such as loom weavers. Supporting women through skills training, workspaces, equipment, and access to markets can drive real progress.
- Mayor Belen Fernandez of Dagupan, Philippines, emphasised investing in areas that matter most—especially in coastal communities, the importance of political will, community engagement, and use of data. Further, supporting small businesses and innovation can help local economies grow and become part of the wider ASEAN economic framework.
2. Localising the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Strategic Plan
- Governor Dakila Carlo Cua of Quirino, Philippines, said localising ASEAN priorities means turning them into actual policies, actions, and budgets. His three key messages included: digital equity should be a priority, local actions must protect vulnerable groups, and local decisions should be based on data.
- Ms. Stephany Uy-Tan, City Councillor of Catbalogan, encouraged cities to align their urban policies with ASEAN goals, share best practices, and boost innovation and inclusivity.
- Dr. Christina Yeo Ken Yin from Malaysia’s Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture stressed that the ASCC is the “people pillar” of ASEAN. She emphasised the need for cross-sector collaboration, realistic planning, and partnerships with local and international actors.
- Mr. Mike Padilla from the Philippines’ Department of Social Welfare added, “Inclusion is not charity, it’s justice.” He stressed that local governments must be equipped with tools, indicators, and resources to turn these goals into real actions.
3. Localising the ASEAN Political-Security Community (APSC) Strategic Plan
- Mayor Glenn Flores of Alaminos, Philippines, shared his municipality’s success in maintaining peace by strengthening community-level governance and safety infrastructure. Initiatives like participatory budgeting help build trust and transparency.
- Ms. Fritzie Aguado of the National Movement of Young Legislators stressed youth participation in peacebuilding, saying, “The youth are the hope of the nation.” She urged local governments to create platforms where young people and civil society can contribute to decision-making and learn about ASEAN values.
- Atty. Jesi Howard Lanete from the Department of the Interior and Local Government said resolving local conflicts early—using cultural and community-based methods—is key. “Peace is not just a policy; it’s a daily practice,” he said.
4. Localising the ASEAN Connectivity Strategic Plan
- Mr. Mohd Yushanizar of Kuala Lumpur’s City Planning Department explained that local governments play a key role in innovation, inclusive development, and people-centered connectivity.
- The panel highlighted that local governments must embrace digital transformation, support innovation, and build smart and sustainable cities to align with ASEAN’s vision for greater connectivity.
The Focus Group Discussion successfully gathered valuable insights from local leaders across ASEAN on how to translate the ASEAN 2045 Vision into concrete local actions. The exchange of ideas highlighted the importance of inclusive, community-driven approaches, digital innovation, and strong local governance in achieving the shared goals of the ASEAN Community. The outcomes of this discussion will be included in the upcoming AGMF and MGMAC meetings, reinforcing the vital role of local governments in shaping a resilient, connected, and people-centred ASEAN future.
