MANILA, Philippines – Australia and the Philippines reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen its development partnership through the launch of the Philippines-Australia Development Partnership Plan 2024-29, highlighting the “close cooperation” between the two countries under its Strategic Partnership, the Australian Embassy said.
During the visit of Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) Ms. Jan Adams AO PSM to the Philippines, she revealed that Australia “is investing in inclusive programs that are responsive to the Philippines’ development needs.”
According to the Embassy, Australia prepared the plan in partnership with the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), and through close consultation with over 50 stakeholders, including the Government of the Philippines, development partners, academia, civil society organisations and the private sector.
Australia’s development partnership with the Philippines is its fifth largest worldwide, amounting to AUD 94.2 million (PHP 3.6 billion) for 2024-2025; and over the last 20 years has contributed over AUD 1.6 billion (PHP 63 billion) to development in the Philippines, the embassy added.
Secretary Adams also met with Secretary of National Defence Gilberto Teodoro, Jr., Secretary of Trade and Industry Cristina Roque, National Security Advisor Eduardo Año and other senior government representatives, including from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), during her two-day visit to the country last week.
This week, 🇦🇺 @DFAT Secretary Jan Adams and I had fruitful discussions with 🇵🇭 @DFAPHL @useclazaro @dndphl Sec Teodoro, @dtiphilippines Sec Roque and National Security Adviser Sec Año.
— Australian Ambassador, The Philippines (@AusAmbPH) October 18, 2024
We reiterated our commitment to advancing the Australia-Philippines Strategic Partnership. pic.twitter.com/5U2ydl3Jyv
“The meetings advanced our shared priorities, including deep strategic defence ties and an ambitious trade and economic agenda,” the Embassy shared.
Adams also received welcome honours during her visit to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Headquarters in Port Area, Manila.
During the visit to the PCG, the head of DFAT led the gifting of 21 ultra compact marine radio to support the communication needs of the Coast Guard’s Palawan District, the Australian Embassy mentioned.
Our maritime partnership is stronger than ever.
— Australian Ambassador, The Philippines (@AusAmbPH) October 19, 2024
Thank you to our friends @coastguardph for the Welcome Honours for @dfat Secretary Adams. pic.twitter.com/vcdYoUWumX
