An historic milestone

21 May 25

Asia Pacific Confederation By RW Bro Dominic De Candia

The Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite (AASR) world witnessed an historic milestone on 14 March 2025, as the Supreme Councils of the Asia Pacific region took a momentous step toward unity and cooperation.

During the Diamond Jubilee celebrations of the Supreme Council of the Philippines, an official Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed, marking the establishment of the Asia Pacific Confederation of Supreme Councils. This landmark agreement solidifies a new era of collaboration among the Supreme Councils of the Philippines, Australia, New Zealand and India.

The signing ceremony, held as part of the Annual Session of the Supreme Council of the Philippines, was a testament to the enduring strength of masonic brotherhood in the region. The hospitality extended to all foreign dignitaries was exemplary, reflecting the commitment to unity and fraternal support. Encouraging words and expressions of support underscored the significance of this initiative in strengthening regional ties and advancing the Scottish Rite.

While the Supreme Council for India was unable to attend, their continued commitment was acknowledged and recognised with understanding. Their involvement, alongside the Supreme Councils of the Philippines, Australia, and New Zealand, signifies a collective vision for AASR cooperation in the Asia Pacific region.

To solidify the Confederation’s place within the global Scottish Rite community, a formal request has been submitted to the 21st World Conference of Supreme Councils, seeking official recognition. This step highlights the commitment of the founding members to ensuring the Confederation’s integration into the broader international framework, reinforcing its legitimacy and significance.

Founding Supreme Councils:

• 1. The Supreme Council of the Philippines – Established 1 January 1950
• 2. The Supreme Council 33° for Australia– Established 12 October 1985
• 3. The Supreme Council 33° for New Zealand – Established 13 February 1994
• 4. The Supreme Council 33° for India– Established 29 September 2005

The establishment of the Asia Pacific Confederation of Supreme Councils acknowledges the region’s growing and vibrant masonic community. For decades, these Supreme Councils have upheld the principles and traditions of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite. The formation of this Confederation represents a significant step toward fostering deeper collaboration, unity and fraternal relations among its members and the wider Scottish Rite world.

As the Confederation takes its first steps, its recognition by the 21st World Conference of Supreme Councils in Bucharest, Romania, May 2025, will further enhance its standing within the global Scottish Rite. With a shared vision and unwavering dedication to masonic principles, this Confederation is poised to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and advance the values of our Rite across the Asia Pacific region and beyond.

📸Grand Secretary General Dominic De Candia Australia, is placing the seals of the MoU