Marcos notes closer PH, Australia defense ties as joint patrol kicks off

November 25, 2023 admin

FILE PHOTO: Marcos hosts Australian PM Albanese in Manila

FILE PHOTO: Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. shakes hands with Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese before the bilateral meeting at the Malacanang palace in Manila, Philippines, September 8, 2023. Earvin Perias/Pool via REUTERS/File Photo

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. noted the closer ties between the Philippines and Australia as both countries kicked off their joint patrol on Saturday.

“This inaugural Maritime Cooperative Activity and those that may follow are a practical manifestation of the growing and deepening strategic and defense partnership between our countries,” Marcos said in a post in X (formerly Twitter).

Marcos added: “This highlights our shared commitment to supporting the rules-based international order and a more peaceful, secure, and stable Indo-Pacific region.”

Manila and Canberra are expected to conduct a maritime cooperative activity until November 27.

The first day of the drills was conducted off the waters of Palawan.

“We endeavor to enhance bilateral interoperability in maritime security and domain awareness; test doctrines, existing protocols, and enhance efficiency; and foster closer cooperation between our countries’ armed forces,” Marcos said of the joint patrol.