CEBU, Philippines, Jan. 12 (Xinhua) -- Leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) are set to sign an agreement that will enhance regional cooperation in combating the deadly scourge of HIV/AIDS, Philippine Secretary of Foreign Affairs Alberto G. Romulo said here Friday.

    Speaking at a press briefing Friday morning, Romulo said the ASEAN leaders will adopt the ASEAN Commitments on HIV/AIDS that will accelerate the bloc's efforts to fight HIV/AIDS that continue to spread in many parts of the world at an alarming speed.

    The third ASEAN Work Program on HIV/AIDS is expected to be adopted during the 12th Summit of ASEAN heads of state here to underscore the need for sustained efforts in the fight against HIV/AIDS within the region.

    The first ASEAN Work Program on HIV/AIDS (1995-2000) identified the priority areas for regional cooperation to battle the deadly diseases and was succeeded by the second ASEAN Work Program on HIV/AIDS which was implemented from 2003 to 2005.