UNION Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Dr Soe Win, Chair of the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Social Welfare and Development, attended the opening ceremony of the ASEAN Family Development Network Conference and Workshop, which is being hosted by the Philippines via videoconferencing from 12 to 14 May 2026.
At the opening ceremony, Rex Gatchalian, Secretary of the Department of Social Welfare and Development of the Philippines, delivered the opening address.
Following this, Dr Soe Win delivered remarks, stating that the ASEAN Declaration on Gender Equality and Family Development and the Bandar Seri Begawan Declaration on the Importance of the Family for Community and Nation Building represent commitments aimed at providing greater support for families and strengthening them.
He also said that, for the stability and prosperity of families across the ASEAN region, it is necessary to strengthen family-centred policies and supportive measures that can reach vulnerable groups through inclusive and adaptable social protection systems. He added that efforts must also be made to enhance integrated approaches and balanced systems that improve access to education, healthcare, social services and livelihood opportunities.
Officials from the Department of Social Welfare under the Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement also attended the opening ceremony together with the Union Minister. — MNA/ MKKS
