The announcement came during a ministerial meeting on maritime security convened by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on September 24, co-hosted with counterparts from Australia, Estonia, Greece, Japan, the Netherlands, the Philippines, Romania, the United Kingdom, and others.

More than 35 countries joined the discussions.

The high-level dialogue focused on upholding international law as reflected in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), defending the freedoms of navigation and overflight, and protecting shared maritime interests.

Participants also exchanged views on threats facing shipping lanes and critical undersea infrastructure.

Secretary Rubio underscored the urgency of collective action to keep global trade routes open, singling out the South China Sea as a key area of concern. He cited the expansive and unlawful maritime claims of China and the destabilizing ways it enforces them, warning that trillions of dollars in annual trade could be at risk.

The ministerial demonstrates the growing diplomatic coalition of countries which share the United States’ interest in strengthening maritime security and preserving vital high seas freedoms from which all nations benefit, according to the media note from the US Secretary of State.

The newly announced $55 million package will support the Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Pacific Island nations, and South Asian maritime states. The funds will go toward boosting patrol capabilities, countering illicit fishing, and improving interdiction against maritime trafficking.

Since 2017, Washington has poured over $1.5 billion into maritime security initiatives across the Indo-Pacific. The State Department stressed that these efforts are central to ensuring peace, stability, and a rules-based order in the world’s oceans.

By reinforcing cooperation, officials said, countries can better respond to shared challenges and ensure that the sea remains a secure and stable domain for all.

During their visit, on January 27-29, the Ambassadors met with local government officials led by Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, civil society representatives, academe and the press. They also visited EU funded-projects on green economy, justice coordination and children’s rights, as well as Baguio City’s Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) Command Center, the Quezon Elementary Library HOB (Hooked on Books), and the Mansion House.

EU Ambassador Massimo Santoro said, “We are pleased to visit Baguio City jointly for the first time. We like to thank the Baguio City government and the officials and representatives from government agencies, NGOs, civil society organisations and the press for the warm welcome. We also like to acknowledge the strong commitment of the city government and partner institutions, and civil society organisations to good governance and to green inclusive growth”.

The envoys visiting the city include Ambassadors Massimo Santoro, European Union; Dr. Titanilla Tóth, Hungary; Michel Parys, Belgium; Raduta Dana Matache, Romania; Ioannis Pediotis, Greece; Dr. Johann Brieger, Austria; Franz-Michael Skjold Mellbin, Denmark; Dr. Andreas Pfaffernoschke, Germany; Marie Fontanel, France; Ričardas Šlepavičius, Lithuania; Karel Hejč, Czechia; Davide Giglio, Italy; Emma Hickey, Ireland; Saija Nurminen, Finland; Nicholas Panayiotou, Cyprus; Ambassador-designate Anna Ferry, Sweden; Chargés d’affaires ad interim Ms Anna Krzak-Danel, Poland; and Mr. Dragan Barbutovski, Slovenia.

Despite being one of the 168 signatories of the  United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)) treaty and a landmark decision of the Hague Arbitral Court in the South China Sea favoring the Philippines, China remains adamant and continues to pose dangers to Filipinos in the West Philippine Sea.

While many countries urge China to respect the rule of law and the international court, a proactive stand was suggested by the international think tank Stratbase ADR Institute by calling for more joint patrols in the West Philippine Sea between the Philippines and like-minded countries.

Stratbase President Professor Dindo Manhit made the statement during the biggest West Philippine Sea forum on Friday in celebration of the 8th anniversary of the arbitral award, which rejected China’s expansive nine-dash line and upheld the Philippine position that China has no lawful claims to areas covered by the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone and continental shelf.

In a statement, Manhit urged like-minded countries to “reinforce cooperation and elevate partnerships by conducting joint patrols and military exercises”.

“Let us likewise support the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines to protect our territory and maritime resources in the West Philippine Sea. These measures, the Institute believes, send a strong message that the Philippines is not alone. The international community will not tolerate those who attempt to circumvent their obligations and behave aggressively. We will not waver in our determination and commitment,” Manhit said.

During the conference, at least 26 countries, through their ambassadors and their representatives, gathered together and reaffirmed their support on the 2016 Arbitral Award.

Among the countries who reaffirmed their support to the award during the conference were Australia, Canada, France, Japan, and the United States. Also present were the ambassadors of Austria, Bangladesh, the European Union, Germany, Greece, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Romania, and Vietnam, and representatives from Brunei, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Singapore, Spain, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.

Manhit emphasized the importance of the arbitral ruling and cooperation with like-minded states amid China’s continuous aggression in the West Philippine Sea.

“This year, we witnessed actions – the most aggressive by far — performed against our fellow Filipinos at sea. Our troops, fisherfolk, and vessels encountered several attempts to block rotation and reprovision missions, numerous occasions of firing of water cannons, and an alarming number of collisions and near-collisions… Our boats may be damaged, and our lives may continuously be at risk, but our will to defend the West Philippine Sea has never been stronger,” Manhit said.

“We have the whole of Philippine society behind us as we assert our rights in the West Philippine Sea, and the support of like-minded states in the community of nations. These give us hope and confidence that we will be able to safeguard our national sovereignty, territorial integrity, and economic rights in the West Philippine Sea. Our collective efforts, whether big or small, have a great impact on our collective pursuit of security and stability,” he added.

Also present during the conference on Wednesday were National Security Adviser Eduardo Ano, Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro, and heads of the Philippine Navy, Philippine Air Force, and the Philippine Coast Guard. Foreign and local security and foreign policy experts also joined in the discussions.

“The legally binding arbitral ruling is clear: the West Philippine Sea is ours. It is the responsibility of all parties to abide by and recognize their obligations under international law… The position and the direction of our government are firm: we will not yield. We will never yield. We will be steadfast,” he maintained.

“As we commemorate our victory today, we invite our friends, allies, and partners who also value the rule of law to reinforce cooperation. This, the Institute believes, sends a strong message to those who attempt to circumvent their obligations and behave aggressively. We will not waver in our determination and commitment,” Manhit said.

Majority of Filipinos want gov’t to assert rights over West Philippine Sea

Last year during the 7th anniversary of Arbitral Victory of the Philippines, 84% of Filipinos surveyed recently said that the Philippine Government should assert the nation’s rights in the West Philippine Sea based on the arbitral ruling.

This year, the latest Pulse Asia survey results show that 8 out of 10 Filipinos agree that the current administration must continue asserting the Philippines’ maritime rights and protecting our territory in the West Philippine Sea.

The polling firm released the survey results on Wednesday during the biggest West Philippine Sea conference, organized by the Stratbase ADR Institute.

The survey, commissioned by the Stratbase Institute, was conducted from June 17 to 24, 2024 and asked 1,200 respondents from all over the country

Results showed that 76% of respondents favored the administration’s continuous assertion of our rights in the West Philippine Sea, while 20% were undecided.

Only 3% of Filipinos were against asserting our rights in the West Philippine Sea.

The survey also asked respondents what measures the Philippines should implement in the West Philippine Sea to strengthen its external defense. Respondents were allowed to choose two answers from six options.

Majority of Filipinos (51%) favored reinforcing alliance and elevating partnerships by conducting joint patrols and military exercises with allies, friends, and partners.

Half of Filipinos (50%) also agreed to support the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines to protect our territory and marine resources in our Exclusive Economic Zone.

Consequently, the same survey also asked Filipinos to identify the entities they want the Philippines to continue working with in asserting its rights in the West Philippine Sea. They were given 11 options and were allowed to choose up to three answers.

A significant 74% of Filipinos said that they want the Philippines to continue working with the United States while 44% said Japan, 41% Canada, and 36% Australia.

Only 5% of Filipinos responded that they want the Philippines to work with China in asserting its rights in the West Philippine Sea.

The relay, which was held at the SM Mall of Asia Globe, is part of the series of events organized until September 8 until the closing day of Paralympic Games.

“Inclusivity, audacity, and innovation are the key words of the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, but also those that best characterize France. We will continue to promote this spirit not only for the 2024 Summer Olympics, but also within our cooperation with our Filipino partners,” said Ambassador Fontanel.

Following the relay, Ambassador Fontanel and Ambassador Pediotis also led the inauguration of an exhibit titled “Legacy in Motion: A Visual Tribute to Olympic and Paralympic Athletes” at S Maison. The exhibit is presented by Agence France-Presse (AFP), Alliance Française de Manille and the Embassy of France to the Philippines, with the support of Decathlon, and SM SuperMalls.

Through a carefully curated collection of images from world-renowned Agence France-Presse, the exhibition in the Philippines offers a poignant tribute to the athletes and sports that have defined the Olympic movement.

For the showcase in the Philippines, photos of Filipino athletes, namely Hidilyn Diaz, Margielyn Arda Didal, Eumir Felix Marcial, Carlos Edriel Yulo, Nesthy Petecio, who participated in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, and Michael Christian Martinez, who participated in the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics were showcased.

The exhibit runs from April 16 to 26 at S Maison, May 20 to 26 at The Podium, and June 21 to 30 at SM Aura (TBC).

As travel boom continues, Filipinos’ ardent desire to travel abroad remains strong and VFS Global believes the need for them to respond to this unprecedented demand through innovative and personalized services and ensure that visa applicants from the Philippines will be able to experience hassle-free visa application that suits their needs.

According to VFS Global, the visa application volume across all visa categories from the Philippines in 2023 surpassed the pre-pandemic levels by 35% (2019). Kaushik Ghosh, Head of VFS Global Australasia expressed his optimism on the continuous travel momentum in 2024.

“This healthy rise in visa applications from the Philippines last year indicates that travelers’ confidence has been restored, and people are ready to explore their favorite global destinations again,” said Ghosh.

As international travel and visa applications have surpassed pre-pandemic levels, one of the trends includes the uptick of Premium services like Premium Lounge and Prime Time, providing personalized assistance and flexible application times, which have seen increased adoption, catering to evolving traveler preferences. 

Expansion of personal services for more convenience

Compared with 2022, visa application volume from the Philippines grew by 48% in 2023, marking a robust recovery in the travel industry. Some popular international destinations last year include Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, Italy, Germany, Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, and Switzerland.

• Visa At Your Doorstep
• Premium Lounge
• Form-filling Assistance 
• Prime Time Service 

The Visa At Your Doorstep (VAYD) has more than doubled since 2019 which proves a strong trend towards a more convenient and efficient application process for travelers. 

Mobile Visa Application Centre, on the other hand, offers enhanced customer convenience, security features, and network reach. This includes service available for 11 client government ins in Manila — Austria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Malta, Switzerland, and the UK. 

Customized services serve as a strong demand factor in 2023 that lead to increasing visa applications. One of these is VFS Global’s personalized service – Visa At Your Doorstep (VAYD) which empowers applicants to complete their entire visa application submission process from the comfort of their homes or any other location of their choice. Through this premium service, customers can submit applications, enroll for biometrics, and also get their passports couriered back to their own choice of location. 

Currently, VFS Global offers VAYD services for 11 countries in the Philippines — Austria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Malta, Switzerland, and the UK. 

Speaking to THEPHILBIZNEWS, Ghosh mentioned that there will be more countries to expect in VAYD services with countries like Australia and Saudi Arabia very soon. He also gave a sneak peek of VFS Global’s offers moving forward. “We will have a premium visa center soon… in a five-star hotel,” Ghosh said.

Furthermore, Ghosh highlighted the healthy adoption of contactless and personalized services due to post-pandemic travelers and health considerations.  “These services enhance the overall visa application experience for applicants by avoiding the need for them to stand in a queue,” Ghosh added. 

Indeed, these personal services will continue to provide enhanced customer convenience, and security features, and expand network reach.

VFS Global eyes more partner countries for visa application processing

With its current partner countries, VFS Global sees more countries will avail of their visa processing service given their track record and growing clients.

The country’s top and reliable visa processing service center caters to 29 sovereign governments in the Philippines namely Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, UAE (Dubai), Finland, Italy, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Lithuania, Malaysia, Malta, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nigeria, Norway, Saudi Arabia, Slovenia, South Africa, Sweden, Switzerland, UK, Ukraine, and USA.

The VFS Global official also said that with the upward trajectory of visa applications in the Philippines which are currently being processed in Metro Manila, Cebu and Davao, the service company provider is already looking into expanding to other key provincial cities in the Philippines that will be able to process the visa applications.

When asked about how VFS Global ensures that the data of visa applicants are protected given the number of visa applicants, Ghosh said, “We have our technology in place that assures all the data of the visa applicants are protected. VFS Global’s role in the visa application process is limited to front-end administrative tasks only, which include collecting visa application forms, required documentation as per the checklist, and enrolling biometrics, if applicable.” 

“The VFS Global has no role in the decision-making process of granting or refusing a visa,” he clarified.

Golden Visa Centrale, a leading international property marketing consultancy specializing in residency by investment has made this announcement.

“Residency-by-investment programs have been getting traction for investors across the world, including the Philippines. These programs not only grant investors and their families the freedom to travel, to study, to work, but also offer opportunities for wealth diversification,” said Vicky Luis, President and Founder of GVC. 

Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program that allows individuals and their families to obtain foreign residency or citizenship by meeting a minimum investment requirement indicated by the country’s government. It offers benefits like unrestricted travel and potential tax advantages. It is estimated that more than 130,000 people have obtained golden visas similar programs in European countries including Portugal, Greece, Italy, and Spain. Over 60 countries globally offer golden visa programs, with European countries including Portugal, Spain, and Greece being some of the most popular.

Established in 2019, Golden Visa Centrale successfully processed and facilitated hundreds of golden visa applications across various European countries and the U.S.

“Since 2019, we have seen the number of golden visa applications coming from the Philippines increase by at least 30% year-on-year, underscoring a growing trend of Filipinos seeking international residency and investment opportunities. We are excited to bring the Greek Golden Visa program to Filipino investors. This is a program perfect for those looking for profitable investments or those who want to live in one of the most beautiful places in the world,” Luis added.

Greek Golden Visa program

The Greek Golden Visa program which began in 2013, granted 31,000 golden visas in 2022, contributing €2.3 billion into the Greek economy. With an initial investment of €250,000, the program offers Filipinos an opportunity to invest in the vibrant city of Patra, the third-largest in Greece and a thriving university hub, located on the Pelopponese peninsula. The investment comes with a host of compelling benefits, annual income, including a five-year permanent residence visa, the possibility of reunification for up to three generations of family members, the convenience of remote application, visa-free travel within Schengen countries, one of the fastest processing times, and a no stay requirement.

“The program’s appeal lies in its combination of a vibrant living experience and a reasonable investment threshold, making it a good choice for those seeking affordable and desirable residency opportunities,” explained Luis. “The Greek Golden Visa program, along with our other offerings, reflects our mission to offer clients the freedom to enjoy beautiful landscapes while actively contributing to the economic development of cities and countries worldwide.”

Learn more about the Greek Golden Visa program by joining Golden Visa Centrale’s events on February 7, 5:30 p.m., Manila House, Taguig City; February 8, 11 a.m., Manila Polo Club, Makati City; and February 9, 9 a.m., Shangri-La at the Fort Horizon Lounge, Taguig City. Register your attendance by visiting bit.ly/GVC-Greece.

For more information on GVC’s other offerings, visit https://goldenvisacentral.com/ or the GVC Facebook page.

Over the years, the European Union and the Philippines’ political and diplomatic relations have transitioned from primarily focused on developmental goals to adopting a more collaborative and mutually beneficial approach.

The Philippines, having established de facto relations with 15 of the early European Union members in 1948, established formal ties with the European Community (the precursor of the European Union) on May 12, 1964. As the EU Delegation to the Philippines was officially opened in 1991, both countries have been fostering their bilateral ties from supporting democracy to the rule of international law.

This robust bilateral relationship is hoped to flourish, with the promise of 2024 shining brightly as a year marked by shared values, collaborative endeavors, and mutual growth.

All around the globe with EU-Phl

The iconic globe at SM Mall of Asia lights on Friday, January 12, and displays the logo of the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the European Union and the Philippines will continue to be visible until January 19, 2024.

H. E. Ambassador Luc Véron, European Union Ambassador to the Philippines, and Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs Usec. Theresa Lazaro joined by SM Supermalls’ President Mr. Steven Tan to lead the lighting ceremony.

The EU-Philippine 60 Years of Diplomatic Relations logo was made by Julie Ar Sibala, a graphic designer at the University of Immaculate Concepcion (Davao). Demonstrating a steadfast commitment to mutual understanding and collaborative problem-solving, it epitomizes the spirit of cooperation, solidarity, and harmonious synergy between two distinct regions.

“It’s a good representation of the continued progress of our relationship. Throughout 2024, The European Union and the Philippines will commemorate the sixty-year anniversary of diplomatic relations through various public and cultural diplomacy events,” said EU Ambassador Veron.

On the other hand, DFA Undersecretary Theresa Lazaro mentioned that the warm and friendly 60 years of diplomatic relations have been marked by productive cooperation — from peace and security, maritime cooperation, trade investment, sustainable development, and governance as well as the rules-based international order — especially that European Commission President H.E. Ursula von der Leyen visited the country last year.

“This year, we hope to advance our green digital economy partnerships with the EU, as well as the possible resumption of the free trade agreement negotiations, among others, said Usec. Lazaro.

Furthermore, special events from a multi-media exhibition to an inter-collegiate quiz (EU Whiz), a choral competition, and many more will be held to celebrate this enduring 60th anniversary of the EU-Philippine bilateral relationship.

Other EU Member States’ Ambassadors from the Embassies that were also in attendance: H.E. Michel Parys of Belgium, Mr. Dalibor Mička, Deputy Head of Mission on behalf of H.E. Karel Hejč of Czech Republic, H. E. Juha Pyykkö of Finland; H. E. Marie Fontanel of France; H.E. Andreas Pfaffernoschke with Spouse Madam Marina of Germany; Mr. Georgios Kantartzis on behalf of H.E. Ioannis Pediotis of Greece; H. E. Titanilla Toth of Hungary; H. E. William Carlos of Ireland; H. E. Marielle Geraedts of Netherlands; H. E. Răduţa Dana Matache, Mrs. Amira Mihăilescu and Mr. Cătălin Mihăilescu of Romania; Borut Žunič of Slovenia; and Alvaro Moreno of Spain.

Beyond putting a spotlight on a myriad of milestones and key achievements in the six-decade partnership between the EU and the Philippines, the celebration serves as a testament to the enduring friendship and continuously strengthening ties between the European Union and the Philippines.

“2024 is a celebration of the values that the EU and the Philippines share – democracy, human rights, equality, the rule of law, and support for multilateralism and international law,” as highlighted by the European Union Ambassador.

Truly, the lighting ceremony serves as a compelling representation of the unbreakable bond between the Philippines and the European Union as both countries navigate exciting and fruitful mutual partnership not just in 2024 but beyond.

The European Union (EU) rolled out another exciting set of summer cultural activities that would certainly pave way for a deeper understanding and appreciation by Filipinos of European culture and heritage.

His Excellency EU Ambassador Franz Jessen graced the launching of “Viva Europa 2019” and said that unlike the past years’ activities, this time, the cultural events will bring Europe closer to the hearts of Filipinos.

Among the activities lined up for Viva Europa are exhibitions, film showing, concerts staged at different venues, and bike tours in Bohol.

These activities are notably light, veering away from the usually spirited discussions on politics, economy, and global issues as championed by the EU.

But the EU ambassador believes this year’s Viva Europa features activities very significant to learning and understanding European arts and culture – a wellspring that has never ran dry for centuries.

Amb. Jessen said these activities of the EU’s cultural diplomacy programme play a significant role in enhancing the bilateral relations between European Union state members and the Philippines.

“Viva Europa” is organized by the EU Delegation to the Philippines, and the members of  the embassies of Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Netherlands, Romania, Spain, Sweden and United Kingdom.

Other groups like Alliance Francaise, the British Council, the Goethe-Institut, Instituto Cervantes, the Philippine-Italian Association and Museo Pambata also support Viva Europa 2019.

Also included in the line-up is Viva Europa’s first-ever stargazing activity and a session on stars and constellations for the youth in line with its theme “EU Goes Techno” in cooperation with the Manila Astronomical Society.

Other educational activities lined up are talks about environmental protection, children’s rights, music and the arts.

A football festival is also scheduled on May 4, spearheaded by the Schuman Cup Football at Ayala Alabang to teach the less-privileged children football – the European way. Another exciting highlight is the friendly game between European diplomats versus Filipino professional players.

“Euro-Pinoy Concert” will bring to the stage various artists from Germany, Czech Republic, Spain and the Philippines, featuring half-German, half-Filipina DJ Marie Badkiss, renowned Czech composer Lukas Sommer, Spanish flamenco guitarist Alex Alcaraz, Filipino percussionist Jean Paul Zialcita, will perform perform at The Ruins of Poblacion in Makati City on May 7.

Meanwhile, the Far Eastern University will hold a nationwide choir competition dubbed as “Musika FEUropa” on May 25-26 at the FEU Auditorium. The contest offers a grand prize of ₱100,000 and a trophy. Expected to take part in the competition are 15 choirs, including one from Cebu.

Martin Lopez, director of Far Eastern University President’s Committee on Culture, said the Musica FEUropa was created to celebrate thru choral music the EU month and the Filipinas Heritage month.

“The commissioned piece by Saunder Choi is the one whose mission is to foster unity, peace and harmony among different nations. Apart from this, the competition also prepares Filipino choirs for competitions in Europe which they will hopefully join and win,” the FEU official said.

Amb. Jessen told the THEPHILBIZNEWS that “every year, we at the EU Embassy would like to have a lot more exciting activities that would enhance camaraderie and appreciation of diverse EU cultures that the Filipinos will learn to love and experience right here in the Philippines.”