17 February 2023, CANBERRA – Philippine Ambassador to Australia Ma. Hellen B. De La Vega and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defense the Honorable Richard Marles MP discussed developments in the regional security environment and reaffirmed the importance of the historic and dynamic defense and security cooperation of the Philippines and Australia during a meeting held on 15 February 2023 in Parliament House.

The Philippines and Australia have a robust security partnership underpinned by shared values and common adherence to democratic principles and the rule of law. The two countries fought together in the second world war and to this day work very closely to address non-traditional and emerging security challenges. Australia is one of only two status of forces agreement partners of the Philippines allowing the two countries to engage in joint exercises and exchanges. In 2019, the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Program was established that builds on the strength of the security partnership including a successful counter-terrorism cooperation. -- END