By Alec Go
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong announced an increase in their Official Development Assistance (ODA) amounting to AUD 89.9 million or P3.32 billion and a maritime cooperation package to the Philippines in her visit here on Thursday, May 18.
The Australia-Philippines joint press release said the ODA for 2023-2024 will support programs for inclusive economic growth, education, training and scholarships, disaster and climate resilience, and peace and stability in Mindanao.”
“This is in addition to an AUD10.95 million commitment to support the Philippines to establish a new immunization information system and a strengthened laboratory network and surveillance system, addressing disruptions to routine immunization during the pandemic,” it stated.
Meanwhile, the package of maritime cooperation will cover Philippine Coast Guard’s technical assistance and capacity building, as well as equipment, skills, and technology for maritime domain awareness and marine protection development.
The package also includes assistance to mitigate the Mindoro oil spill’s impact and support for women’s leadership in maritime security.
Wong and Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo held a bilateral meeting on Thursday, where they both recognized Australia-Philippines ties on defense and security, maritime, law and justice, health, innovation, disaster risk reduction, education, among others.
“Secretary Manalo and Minister Wong agreed to enhance trade and investment cooperation, including exploring possible cooperation on critical minerals, and to continue exploring opportunities to improve two-way tourism,” the joint press release stated.
“Both looked forward to further strengthening people-to-people connections through the Work and Holiday Visa Arrangement being negotiated between the two countries,” it added.
On the West Philippine Sea situation, both officials “agreed on the importance of securing a region that is open, stable and prosperous, where sovereignty is respected and where States operate in accordance with agreed rules and norms.”
The two leaders also committed to support both countries’ candidature for the United Nations Security Council. – gb
