By Monsi A. Serrano
Australia’s Ambassador to the Philippines, His Excellency Marc Innes-Brown, paid tribute to the courage and professionalism of Filipino journalists, underscoring their indispensable role in safeguarding freedom of speech and strengthening the growing partnership between Australia and the Philippines.
Speaking before members of the media at the Australian Embassy’s Annual Journalists’ Reception, the Ambassador stressed that in an era increasingly shaped by AI-driven disinformation, credible journalism has become even more vital to democratic life.
“Fearless reporting and quality journalism are essential voices in illuminating the truth and strengthening ties between nations,” Ambassador Innes-Brown said.
He commended the Philippines’ vibrant and resilient press for upholding democracy despite the challenges faced in recent years and stressed that personal engagement with media remains crucial. Journalists, he noted, serve as trusted storytellers who connect communities and help deepen public understanding of the Australia-Philippines relationship.
The Ambassador reiterated that Australia now considers the Philippines an increasingly important strategic partner, highlighting expanding cooperation in trade, investment, defense, maritime security, development assistance, and people-to-people ties.
PH-Australia travel and defense advances
Among key economic milestones he cited were the progress under Australia’s “invested” strategy—aimed at boosting outward Australian investments in the region—and the awarding of service contracts to Australian firms for oil and gas exploration in the Philippines, signaling renewed investor confidence.
He also noted Jetstar’s inaugural Brisbane-Cebu flight, the first direct route from Australia to a Philippine destination outside Manila. The new service is expected to add more than 100,000 seats next year and further strengthen tourism and economic linkages.
On defense and maritime cooperation, Ambassador Innes-Brown pointed to major advances, including the largest bilateral military exercise Australia has conducted in the region, held this year with the Philippines.
He added that both countries are working toward a new defense cooperation agreement. Australia has also doubled its civil-maritime support to the Philippine Coast Guard, provided advanced technology such as drones, and trained over 800 Filipino officials on maritime domain awareness.
Long-term development partnership
Australia’s development cooperation with the Philippines remains among its largest worldwide, with an annual allocation of $94 million for education, climate and disaster resilience, sustainable agriculture, and economic governance—bringing total assistance to over $100 million each year.
The Ambassador also underscored long-standing law enforcement collaboration as part of Australia’s broader commitment to promoting regional peace, stability, and prosperity.
He noted that 2026 will mark the 80th anniversary of Australia-Philippines diplomatic relations, which coincides with the Philippines’ ASEAN chairmanship. Australia, he said, stands ready to support the Philippines’ priorities as ASEAN chair, reaffirming that the bilateral relationship is rooted in trust, cooperation, and long-term commitment.
Reflecting on the warm welcome he has received since arriving in Manila, Ambassador Innes-Brown said he continues to be struck by the strong appreciation for Australia’s contributions and the growing momentum in bilateral ties.
He ended by thanking Filipino journalists for their unwavering dedication: “Your work is indispensable. You illuminate the great work happening between our two countries, and we look forward to partnering with you as we celebrate eight decades of diplomatic relations and build toward an even stronger future together.”