P-Noy off to Hawaii for APEC

MANILA, Philippines - President Aquino left for Honolulu, Hawaii yesterday afternoon to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) leaders’ meeting, hoping to gain inputs that could solve the country’s economic, security and energy concerns.

In his departure speech delivered at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 2, the President acknowledged the importance of attending the summit, noting the crises happening in the Middle East, Europe and the United States.

He said the Arab uprising, the economic uncertainty in Europe and the US had affected the Philippines and cooperation among APEC member countries is important.

“Every strategy, suggestion and knowledge that we will gather from APEC can be used to solve the country’s problems and push forward the people’s interest,” Aquino said.

He said some of the issues that APEC would focus on would include economic security, efficient use of energy and creation of more jobs.

Aside from meeting other leaders during the summit, the Chief Executive said he would take the opportunity to showcase the Philippines as an investment destination by showing to the world the reforms that his administration had initiated to make the country more competitive.

The President is also scheduled to meet with the Filipino community in Hawaii during his three-day stay in the US Pacific state.

The President said the Philippines would join other APEC member-countries in their quest for progress and prosperity as they gathered in the summit.

“Upon our return to the Philippines on Tuesday, we are confident that we will be able to bring home stronger coordination with other countries and more opportunities for our beloved people,” Aquino said.

He also announced his scheduled meeting with Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard on the side of the APEC leaders’ meeting.

The President mentioned his intention to meet Gillard during the visit of Australian Foreign Minister Kevin Rudd last month.

Aurea Calica, Philippine Star