By Monsi A. Serrano
Australia’s support for the Philippines has gone beyond diplomatic statements with concrete defense assistance now at the forefront of its Strategic Partnership, it was learned at the 9th anniversary of the Philippines’ Arbitral Victory against China.
As Ambassador HK Yu of Australia ends her tour of duty in the country, she highlighted a series of tangible contributions that strengthen the Philippines’ maritime and cybersecurity defenses.
Among the key support measures:
- Delivery of 20 drones and VHF radios to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG)
- Operational training for maritime surveillance
- A new AU$3 million (₱110 million) assistance package to bolster PCG’s maritime domain awareness through integrated surveillance and drone technologies.
Expanded joint military exercises, including:
- Regular Maritime Cooperative Activities (MCAs)
- Philippine participation in Exercise PITCH BLACK in Australia since 2024
- The upcoming Exercise ALON 2025, Australia’s largest-ever military drill held outside its borders
- Trilateral maritime cooperation with Japan and the United States
- Cybersecurity support through the Southeast Asia and Pacific Cyber Program (SEA-PAC), which equips the Philippines with cyber incident response tools, infrastructure hardening, and threat intelligence sharing.
“Our defense ties reflect a shared commitment to regional security and a rules-based order,” Yu said.
During the commemoration of the 9th anniversary of its Arbitral Victory against China’s expansive claims in the West Philippine Sea, Yu reaffirmed Australia’s support for international law and the 2016 ruling’s legitimacy.
“The rule of law is not optional,” she said. “Destabilizing actions and excessive maritime claims must be addressed to ensure regional peace and stability.”
Yu said the elevation of bilateral ties to a Strategic Partnership in 2023 is “a testament to deepening cooperation.”
“Australia is committed to helping the Philippines strengthen its cyber resilience not just at sea, but in cyberspace as well,” she added.
Looking ahead to the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2026, Yu expressed confidence in the future of the partnership.
“Serving as Australia’s Ambassador has been a true honor. I am proud of all we’ve achieved together, and I am confident our partnership will grow even stronger in the years to come,” she said.
Her parting words serve as both a reminder of shared values and a pledge of enduring support amid rising regional tensions.
