26 April 2023, CANBERRA – A high-level delegation from the Philippines led by Presidential Adviser on Legislative Affairs Secretary Mark Llandro Mendoza, Transportation Undersecretary Elmer Sarmiento and the Commandant of the Philippine Coast Guard Admiral Artemio Abu joined Ambassador of the Philippines to Australia Ma. Hellen B. De La Vega in observing ANZAC Day in Canberra on 25 April at the Australian War Memorial. The delegation was visiting Canberra to pursue engagements on civil maritime security.

The Philippines and Australia have a long history of cooperation on defense and security dating back to the second World War. Australia is a top defense partner of the Philippines and one of only two status of forces agreement partners of the country. The Ambassador said, “The friendship of the Philippines and Australia was shaped by our shared adherence to democracy and liberty. Australia played a significant role in the liberation of the Philippines in 1945 and we honor the sacrifices of Australian personnel during the war.”

As maritime nations, the Philippines and Australia continue to work together to promote and uphold the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea and ensure that the waters surrounding our countries remain peaceful and stable and our marine resources protected. -- END