22 June 2023, CANBERRA – Philippine Ambassador to Australia Ma. Hellen B. De La Vega and President of the Senate Senator the Hon Susan Lines met today in Parliament and discussed the enduring relations of the Philippines and Australia.

Senate President Lines observed the increasing numbers of Filipinos in Western Australia and community organizations that are strongly representing the Philippines in the State. The Ambassador noted that the first Filipinos who arrived in Australia in the 1860’s lived in Broome and to this day there are descendants of Manilamen who continue to live in Broome. The Senate President said that there are very strong links between the pearl divers of that time and Indigenous Australians.

Ambassador De La Vega recalled the launch of Philippine Airlines flight between Manila and Perth in March this year and how enhanced connectivity will support stronger trade and investment. The Ambassador and the President of the Senate discussed opportunities to further advance people-to-people connections of the Philippines and Australia. – END