PRESS RELEASE

Philippine Embassy, Canberra

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

13 MARCH 2026, CANBERRA – Philippine Ambassador to Australia Antonio Morales hosted a reception to advance cooperation and partnership with the Pacific. The event brought together members of the diplomatic corps, including the Pacific Heads of Mission, and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Ambassador Morales highlighted the Philippines’ unique position as both an ASEAN member and an active partner of the Pacific. He reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to deepening cooperation on shared priorities, including climate change, sustainable development and regional security.

The Ambassador also highlighted major Philippine initiatives, including the opening of a Philippine Embassy in Suva, the country’s ASEAN Chairmanship with a focus on enhancing Pacific engagement, and its campaign for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.

Guests were invited to view the “Hope and Endeavor” exhibit, which showcases the Philippines’ contributions to international peace and cooperation, and reflects its vision as a constructive and reliable global partner.

Guided by the theme “Navigating Our Future, Together,” the 2026 ASEAN Chairship of the Philippines’ reflects the country’s commitment to leading ASEAN with unity, clarity, and purpose. It is a call to steer the region toward greater resilience, deeper connection, and meaningful change that places our people at the center of progress.

The Philippines also brings its solid track record and contributions to peace and justice to its candidature to the United Nations Security Council for the term 2027-2028 at elections to be held during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in June 2026 in New York.

Further information on the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairmanship can be found at https://asean2026.gov.ph/, while details on its candidature for the UN Security Council are available at https://sites.google.com/dfa.gov.ph/phinunsc/. - END