PRESS RELEASE

Philippine Embassy, Canberra

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

Ambassador De La Vega celebrated PH-AU Friendship Day with Filipino community in Perth

20 August 2026, CANBERRA –The Philippine Embassy in Australia welcomed 26 student participants of the Australian Institute of International Affairs (AIIA) Diplomatic Circuit for a visit to the Embassy. The visit was an opportunity for the students to learn more about Philippine-Australian relations, the Philippines’ foreign policy priorities, and the Embassy’s work in Australia.

Consul General Sheila Tario provided an overview of the Strategic Partnership and highlighted the longstanding friendship and historic ties, including the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations. She discussed the continued growth of bilateral cooperation in areas including defence and security, trade and investment, and people-to-people links.

Consul General Tario also highlighted the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairship, including its priorities of championing peace and stability through dialogue and adherence to international law; advancing economic integration and digital transformation; and promoting inclusive and sustainable development.

The participants also learned about the Philippine Embassy’s work in supporting the Filipino community, including the range of consular services it provides to Filipinos in Australia.

The visit also included a brief tour of the Embassy grounds and an introduction to the history and significance of the Residence and Chancery, as well as the Bust of Dr. Jose Rizal, the Philippines’ national hero.

As part of the visit, the participants were treated to a Filipino lunch featuring seafood pancit (stir-fried noodles), kinilaw (ceviche), beef caldereta (beef stew cooked with tomato-based sauce), chicken inasal (grilled marinated chicken), bibingka (baked rice cake with butter and cheese), and leche flan (caramel custard).

The AIIA Diplomatic Circuit is an educational program that provides students with the opportunity to visit Embassies in Canberra and engage directly with diplomats and foreign policy practitioners to gain first-hand insights into international relations, diplomacy, foreign policy, and the work of diplomatic missions.-END

#PHAU80YEARS 🇵🇭🇦🇺