Author : Quimba, Francis Mark A.; Rosellon, Maureen Ane D.; Carlos, Jean Clarisse T.

Summary : To develop a cohesive, economically integrated, socially responsible, people-oriented, people-centered, and rules-based region, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Community was established in November 2015. It is composed of three pillars: the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community, and the ASEAN Political-Security Community. Each pillar corresponds to a blueprint and is a part of the general master plan ASEAN Community Vision 2025 with the theme "ASEAN 2025: Forging Ahead Together". This study focuses on the ABC Blueprint 2025 and its characteristics and elements. More than five years since its establishment, there is a need to assess the performance of the Philippines in the AEC key result areas. By comparing the baseline with the most recent data, this study found that the Philippines is in the middle of the pack (ranking from 4th to 6th) among ASEAN countries. In terms of AEC vision and goals, the country's performance suggests that it is generally on track and progressing in the right direction. (authors' abstract)