H.E. Ma. Hellen B. De La Vega, Philippine Ambassador to Australia, shares her experiences as a diplomat, with the Monash International Affairs Society and the Filipino Association of Monash during a video conference on 21 May 2020.

22 May 2020 – H.E. Ma. Hellen B. De La Vega, Philippine Ambassador to Australia, was a guest speaker at the online video conference organized by the Monash International Affairs Society with the Filipino Association of Monash on 21 May 2020. The conference coincided with the celebration of Philippines Australia Friendship Day. She underscored the important role of Filipino international students in continuing the historic and enduring friendship between the Philippines and Australia.

In her remarks, Ambassador De La Vega said, “The economic, social and health impact of COVID-19 will persist in the years to come and we must work together with the international community and global and regional institutions to find innovative and agile ways to face these unprecedented challenges.” She shared her insights on how the Philippines is harnessing its cooperation with Australia through the Philippines-Australia Comprehensive Partnership and the ASEAN Australia Strategic Partnership to move together to a post-pandemic recovery plan.

Ambassador De La Vega answered questions on her experience as a diplomat and the principles that guided her professional and personal life. She encouraged students to learn more about Philippine culture through Filipino food, faith and family values.

Ambassador De Le Vega said she looked forward to seeing the students become future leaders in the international community.

Members of the Monash International Affairs Society and the Filipino Monash Association engage with H.E. Ma. Hellen B. De La Vega, Philippine Ambassador to Australia, during an online video conference on 21 May 2020 coinciding with the celebration of Philippines Australia Friendship Day.