RP to rely on neighbors

RP to rely on neighbors

SUBIC BAY, Philippines (DPA): Breaking away from vestiges of a Western colonial past, the Philippines will rely more on renewed ties with Southeast Asian neighbors for economic progress, President Fidel Ramos said yesterday.

"More and more, the Philippines' destiny lies in its relations with its neighbors in Southeast Asia," Ramos said upon arrival from a five-day official trip to Hong Kong, Laos and Myanmar, his 30th foreign trip since assuming the presidency in 1992.

"Our security hinges in large measure on our solidarity with them. Our economic progress is enhanced by the integration of Southeast Asia's economies," he added.

But Ramos stressed that economic solidarity and regional integration can only be achieved through constant contact and interaction not only of governments but of citizens as well.