PRESS RELEASE

Philippine Embassy, Canberra

1 Moonah Place, Yarralumla, ACT 2600
www.philembassy.org.au    *Tel. No. 02-6273-2535*

05 November 2025, CANBERRA – Philippine Ambassador to Australia H.E. Antonio A.. Morales met with the Hon. Julie Collins MP, Member for Franklin (Hobart, Tasmania) and Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry in Parliament House on 05 November 2025.

The Ambassador and Minister Collins underscored the deep and longstanding friendship between the Philippines and Australia, including the elevation of relations to a Strategic Partnership in 2023. They exchanged views on the importance of strengthening cooperation on agricultural sustainability and reaffirmed the value of a shared understanding of common principles and approaches to food security in the region.

Ambassador Morales expressed hope to grow and diversify the trade relationship between the Philippines and Australia including through market access of agricultural products as well as exchange of best practices, sharing of expertise and technical assistance on biosecurity. He noted the importance of Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040 to increase two-way trade investment between Australia and Southeast Asia especially since agriculture and food is a key priority for the Philippines.

In 2023, the Philippines and Australia signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Furthering Cooperation on the National Soil Health Strategy, aimed at enhancing soil and land management practices to promote healthier soils and boost agricultural productivity in the Philippines. In 2026, the two countries will celebrate 80 years of diplomatic relations. - END