10 March 2023, Canberra - Ambassador Ma. Hellen B. De La Vega welcomed to the Philippine Embassy Atty. Eloisa Katrina Madamba of the Office of Treaties and Legal Affairs of the Department of Foreign Affairs, CDR Jovy Iringan of the Philippine Navy, and CDR Jerilee Penalba of the Philippine Coast Guard who are participating in the inaugural training course under the Women in Maritime Security (WiMS) Network.

The program was organized by the Australia Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in partnership with the Australian National Centre for Ocean Resources and Security (ANCORS).

The participants will study law of the sea and maritime security at the ANCORS facility at the University of Wollongong and undergo management and leadership training through engagements with agencies and site visits.

Ambassador De La Vega emphasized that the Philippines and Australia have always had robust cooperation in maritime security, especially in education, knowledge exchange and capacity. She underscored the importance of fostering close relations and building networks with fellow maritime security officials to enhance understanding and strengthen interagency coordination for regional peace and stability.

Noting the celebration of National Women’s Month in March, the participants also shared developments in the promotion of gender inclusivity in the Philippine maritime security sector. END