PRESS RELEASE

Philippine Embassy, Canberra

1 Moonah Place, Yarralumla, ACT 2600
www.philembassy.org.au    *Tel. No. 02-6273-2535*

11 February 2025, CANBERRA – Philippine Ambassador to Australia, H.E. Antonio Morales met with officials from the City of Joondalup led by Mayor Albert Jacob to explore opportunities for collaboration in cybersecurity, healthcare, education, and trade and investment. The discussions reinforced the growing ties between Joondalup and the Philippines, particularly in digital innovation and health services.

Joondalup's strategic position as a hub for cybersecurity and digital transformation was a key focus of the meeting. Ambassador Morales welcomed deeper collaboration in this critical field, emphasizing its importance in ensuring economic and national security amid evolving digital threats.

Healthcare remains one of Joondalup’s largest employment sectors. Mayor Jacob recognized the significant contributions of Filipino healthcare professionals, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Ambassador Morales expressed appreciation for their dedication and highlighted the need to further strengthen cooperation in the health sector, including workforce development, training, and knowledge exchange between healthcare institutions.

Edith Cowan University (ECU), based in Joondalup, has forged partnerships with institutions overseas, including an International Nursing Program with Arellano University in the Philippines. The Ambassador commended this initiative as a model for enhancing academic and professional exchanges.

With the direct flights between Manila and Perth and the shared time zone between Western Australia and the Philippines, the meeting highlighted significant opportunities to enhance tourism, trade, and business linkages.

The Philippines and Australia elevated their bilateral relationship to a Strategic Partnership in 2023. In February 2024, the two countries signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Cyber and Critical Technology Cooperation to enhance information- sharing, best practices on cybersecurity and critical technologies, cyber skills development and support for the digital economy. - END