PRESS RELEASE

Philippine Embassy, Canberra

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

11 MARCH 2026, CANBERRA – Philippine Ambassador Antonio A. Morales met with Senator the Hon. Sue Lines, President of the Australian Senate, at Parliament House to reaffirm the strong and steadily growing Strategic Partnership between the Philippines and Australia, as both countries commemorate the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations this year.

During the meeting, Ambassador Morales highlighted the depth and breadth of the bilateral relationship, including expanding cooperation in defense, trade and investment, and development. He also highlighted the continued growth and valuable contributions of the Filipino community in Australia across a wide range of industries, noting their important role in supporting economic growth and strengthening people-to-people ties between the Philippines and Australia. Ambassador Morales further emphasized the importance of enhancing connectivity between the two countries.

Ambassador Morales and Senate President Lines also reaffirmed the shared commitment of the Philippines and Australia to upholding a rules-based international order and strengthening cooperation on regional and global issues of mutual interest.

The Philippines and Australia established formal diplomatic relations on 04 July 1946. Today, Australia is one of the Philippines’ five Strategic Partners, with cooperation spanning political, security, economic, development, and people-to-people initiatives. - END