Community News
PHILIPPINE EMBASSY CELEBRATES 58th ASEAN DAY WITH ACO
Embassy of the Philippines in Ottawa, Canada
11 August 2025, Ottawa – The Philippine Embassy in Ottawa joined the members of the ASEAN Committee in Ottawa (ACO) in the celebration of the 58th ASEAN Day on 07 August 2025 under the Chairmanship of the Embassy of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. The celebration was held at the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia.
In his remarks, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, ASEAN Secretary General, underscored the beginning of a new chapter in ASEAN Community-building marked by the successful adoption of ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Future.
He also expressed optimism for the journey ahead, reaffirming that inclusivity and sustainability will remain at the heart of ASEAN’s regional integration efforts as the region navigates future challenges for a prosperous ASEAN Community.
The Honorable Yasir Naqvi, M.P., Parliamentary Secretary to Canada’s Minister of International Trade and to the Secretary of State (International Development), graced the event as Guest of Honor. He recognized the vital contributions of ASEAN to regional peace, stability, and economic prosperity, and emphasized Canada’s commitment to the achievement of these shared goals through the ASEAN-Canada Strategic Partnership mechanism.
After the program, guests were treated to an appetizing selection of ASEAN cuisine, highlighting the richness, similarities and diversity of the culinary traditions of Southeast Asia. The Philippine Embassy showcased the famous Chicken Adobo and Ube Cake with Macapuno, as well as Calamansi Liqueur and Mango Rum Liqueur.
The ACO is composed of the resident Embassies and High Commissions of Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam in Ottawa. ACO Chairmanship rotates among its members every six months.
Nationals of ASEAN countries comprise a significant number of diaspora populations in Canada, with a growing number of international students coming from the region and the Philippines being the third largest source of immigrants.
