Partnering for security and prosperity

G'DAY KAIBIGAN!

- MARC INNES-BROWN

Mabuhay! On Aug. 19, I had the privilege of presenting my credentials to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. This marks the beginning of my time as Australia's Ambassador to the Philippines. The Philippines is an increasingly significant partner for Australia. Our countries have never been closer — and I am honored to play a role in advancing our Strategic Partnership, to the benefit of both Australians and Filipinos.

My first month here has been both busy and rewarding. On a personal level, I have felt the warmth and generosity of Filipinos first-hand. Professionally, I have been struck by the depth and breadth of cooperation between our two nations in almost every field.

One area in which Australia and the Philippines are stepping up cooperation is in the maritime domain. On Aug. 7, Australia and the Philippines held our fifth Maritime Dialogue. At the heart of this dialogue is a simple goal: ensuring that our seas remain peaceful, stable and secure for everyone, and that international law is observed and maintained. Our enhanced cooperation is delivering benefits for local fishing communities and our shared marine environment.

Later in the month, Australia's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, Richard Marles, traveled to Manila for the third time. His visit highlighted how strong our defense partnership has become. Together with Secretary of National Defense Gilberto Teodoro Jr., he signed a Statement of Intent on Enhanced Defense Cooperation. This agreement sets us on a path toward more joint training, deeper cooperation and better interoperability between our armed forces.