PRESS RELEASE

Philippine Embassy, Canberra

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

07 September 2026, CANBERRA – Ambassador Antonio A. Morales received H.E. Curtis Leonard Tu’ihalangingie, High Commissioner of the Kingdom of Tonga to Australia, for a courtesy call at the Embassy.

During the meeting, the Heads of Mission discussed the longstanding and historic relations between the Philippines and Tonga, as well as shared interests and challenges, particularly in addressing climate change and protecting the marine environment.

Ambassador Morales underscored the Philippines’ priority of deepening its engagement with the Pacific as a maritime Pacific nation, and highlighted opportunities to further strengthen cooperation with Tonga in areas of mutual interest.

H.E. Tu’ihalangingie acknowledged the valuable contributions of Filipino professionals in Tonga and expressed appreciation for the Philippines’ support to Tonga following the tsunami and volcanic eruption in 2022. Both sides also welcomed opportunities to expand bilateral cooperation, particularly in the area of technical and skills training.-END