AMBASSADOR PONCE ASSUMES PRESIDENCY OF ASEAN LADIES CIRCLE

Kuala Lumpur, 29 March 2025 — Ambassador Maria Angela Ponce assumed the Presidency of the ASEAN Ladies Circle (ALC) President for the term 2025-2026 during the 43rd ALC Annual General Meeting held on 27 March 2025 at the Royal Thai Embassy. Her presidency comes at a pivotal moment for ALC Philippines as Malaysia is currently the ASEAN Chair, and her term presents a significant opportunity for deeper collaboration and regional solidarity.

In her acceptance speech, Ambassador Ponce expressed her profound honor and gratitude for being entrusted with the role. She also acknowledged the impactful leadership of her predecessor and the Patron of ALC Thailand, Her Excellency Ambassador Lada Phuma.

Ambassador Ponce further emphasized her enthusiasm for cooperation, stating, “I am filled with excitement and hope for what we can accomplish together. I look forward to working closely with each of you, not only to strengthen the bonds of friendship among our nations but also to uplift and empower our women and communities through meaningful collaboration.”

Ambassador Ponce emphasized the significance of March as a time to honor women, both globally and in the Philippines. She noted, “March is an important month for women, as we celebrate International Women's Day. In the Philippines, we celebrate the entire month as international women's month. In this light, I find it all the more symbolic and meaningful that we the ALC are gathered today, for I believe that at its core ALC is a celebration of women and of our friends, especially when we work together.”

Ambassador Ponce concluded her speech with a call to action, urging the ALC to seize the opportunity to establish lasting initiatives that embody Asian unity, diversity, and the strength of partnerships. She expressed her eagerness to embark on this journey alongside her colleagues, guided by a shared spirit of compassion and cooperation that has long defined the ALC. Acknowledging the honor and responsibility of her role, she also recognized the accomplishments of her predecessor and past presidents, emphasizing the importance of building upon their legacy.

Alternate Patron Mary Michelle Reyes, Incoming Honorary Secretary Jesher Micha Carolino, newly appointed Country Representative Clarissa Marie Villamor and Outgoing Honorary Treasurer Joena Flores also attended the event.

The ASEAN Ladies Circle in Kuala Lumpur remains steadfast in its mission to advance unity, cultural exchange, and community engagement among ASEAN member states, fostering initiatives that exemplify the ASEAN ideals of harmony, partnership, and compassion for humanity. END