‘More robust’ Philippines-Australia ties seen in Marcos Jr. visit
MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos vowed yesterday to act as a “bridge” that would further link the Philippines with its strategic partner Australia during his two-day visit to Canberra, which he hopes will lead to “more robust” ties between the two countries.
Marcos left for Canberra for a two-day “guest of government” visit that will reciprocate Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s visit to the Philippines last year. Marcos is scheduled to come home today but will fly to Melbourne on Sunday to attend the Association of Southeast Asian Nations-Australia Special Summit.?“I am honored to bring with me in this visit the best of our motherland and our inherent desire for peace and prosperity. I intend to serve as a bridge that will further connect the two democratic maritime nations and promote our visions of amity, development, and cooperation,” the President said in his departure statement at the Villamor Air Base in Pasay.?“I hope to bring home with me a more robust, warmer and closer Philippine-Australian relations,” he added.
Marcos is scheduled to address the Australian parliament to discuss the Philippines’ commitments in its partnership with Australia, the first Filipino leader to do so. His address is also expected to touch on his vision for the Philippines’ future, defense and trade matters. ?“I will make sure to acknowledge the ever-growing relations on defense and security with one of our only two Status of Visiting Forces partners as highlighted last year by the success of Exercise Alon and the Maritime Cooperative Activity,” the Chief Executive said.?“I shall also highlight the huge potential in trade and investment that we should maximize in the coming years. After all, economic security is a vital component of national security.” ?Marcos said he is expecting the mutual understanding between Manila and Canberra to be enhanced since they share a common vision not just for their bilateral relations, but for the peace and security of the region.?“Our engagement in the parliament will also feature conversations with Australia’s legislative leadership who are vital partners in ensuring a favorable and enabling policy to our relations to continue its
