LONDON, United Kingdom (The Adobo Chronicles, Berlin Bureau) – As the United Kingdom concluded its referendum today on whether or not it should leave the European Union (EU), Philippine President Aquino has revealed his secret wish for his country to become an EU member.

“It has been a long-time dream of mine,” Aquino said, as he continued to pack up his belongings in preparation for turning over Malacañang (the presidential palace) to incoming President Rod Duterte.

Aquino said that becoming an EU member will be a testament to the fact that the Philippines is on its way to becoming a first-world country.  “Everything I’ve done in my 6 years as president has been geared towards this goal,” he said.

It is estimated that more than one million Filipinos live in EU member-countries, with the top five destinations being the U.K., Italy, Germany, France and Spain.

“Since U.S. statehood for the Philippines is becoming less and less of a reality, the next best thing for our country is to be part of Europe,” Aquino told The Adobo Chronicles.

The outgoing president is hopeful that Duterte will continue to pursue this dream during the next 6 years.