The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has renewed its call for the release of Burmese prisoner Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, as Myanmar has rejected a bid by the Philippine special envoy to meet the detained former leader.
According to ASEAN Spokesperson Dominic Xavier M. Imperial, Secretary Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro remains committed to upholding the Five-Point Consensus (5PC) of ASEAN. This includes concrete measures that contribute to genuine dialogue and meaningful progress, such as the release of prisoners, including Daw Aung San Suu Kyi.
The DFA has welcomed Myanmar's recent decision to grant amnesty to around 4,500 prisoners and transfer Daw Aung San Suu Kyi from detention to house arrest. However, the DFA is urging Myanmar to release elderly and infirm prisoners, as this is essential to advancing political dialogue in accordance with the ASEAN 5PC.
The DFA previously sought access to Ms. Suu Kyi in May in an effort to help Myanmar build international confidence. The Philippines also commended Myanmar's move to allow the transfer of Ms. Suu Kyi to house arrest and the amnesty grant given to 1,500 prisoners during the observance of the Full Moon Day of Kason.
The DFA's efforts are seen as part of its overall commitment to fostering national reconciliation and promoting peaceful dialogue in the region.
