The Philippines and Australia continue to strengthen their political exchanges with the visit to Australia of the 6th Philippine delegation hosted by the Australian Political Exchange Council.

The Philippine delegation is headed by Hon. Alfredo A. Garbin, Member of the House of Representatives, Ako Bicol Party List and co-headed by Hon. Pearl Angeli E. Pacada, Vice Governor of the Province of Tarlac. Other delegation members are Hon. Francis Eric E. Recinto, Provincial Board Member of the Province of Sultan Kudarat, Hon. Felix F. Ylagan, Provincial Board Member of the Province of Romblon, Hon. Norman D. Palacio, Municipal Mayor of Bilar, Bohol, Hon. Xyza R. Diazen, City Councillor of the 2nd District of Marikina City, and Ms. Cielo Magno, Director of the Philippine Center of Young Leaders in Governance Foundation, Inc.

In sponsoring regular political exchanges, the Australian Political Exchange Council provides visiting delegations the opportunity to learn about Australia’s political system, examine economic and social issues, and meet and exchange views with government officials.

Aside from Canberra, the delegation’s weeklong itinerary also included visits to Sydney and Melbourne.

Philippine Embassy Chargé d’ Affaires, a.i. Mary Anne Padua welcomed and hosted a luncheon in honor of the Philippine delegation on 28 February 2012 at the Brassey Hotel. During the occasion, the Embassy officials apprised the delegation on its current activities and challenges. On the other hand, the delegation briefed the Embassy on its program in Australia and agreed to look into how it can help the Embassy in further pursuing Philippine interests in Australia.