PERTH – Philippine Ambassador to Australia Ma. Hellen B. De La Vega made her official visit to Western Australia on 05-06 June 2019 and highlighted the significant trade and investment relations and people to people connections between the State and the Philippines.

The Ambassador called on Western Australia Governor Kim Beazley on 05 June 2019.

In her calls on Governor Kim Beazley, Premier Mark McGowan and leaders of the Western Australian parliament, Ambassador De La Vega noted that Western Australia accounts for 47% of Australia’s total merchandise export to the Philippines. The WA officials took pride in the success of Austal shipyard in Balamban, Cebu and its plans to expand its operations in the Philippines.

“We have a strong economic relationship with Western Australia. The Philippines is an important market for Western Australian wheat and there are several firms based in this State that have presence in the Philippines.” the Ambassador remarked.

To further build on economic opportunities between the Philippines and Western Australia, the Ambassador met with officials of the Department of Jobs, Tourism and Science and Innovation and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Western Australia.

The Ambassador said, “As we approach 75 years of Philippines-Australia diplomatic relations in 2021, it is important to develop new trade and investment pathways. The Philippines is one of the best performing and fastest growing economies in the world. We are focused on developing our strategic industries which include shipbuilding, construction and strategic materials and resource. Western Australia has many strengths in these sectors and we can find ways to cooperate with each other.”

The Ambassador added that as part of her visit, the Partner Philippines Investment Forum will be held on Saturday, 08 June 2019 at the Perth Convention Centre to discuss key opportunities for Australian businesses in the Philippines, share the Philippines’ new industrial policy on innovation, and gain insights into the dynamic and resilient growth of the Philippine economy. -- END

The Ambassador met with Western Australian Premier Mark McGowan on 05 June 2019.