PRESS RELEASE

Philippine Embassy, Canberra

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

19 October 2026, QUEZON CITY – Philippine Ambassador to Australia Antonio A. Morales joined senior Philippine and Australian officials in a briefing by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), through the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), on the Philippines' disaster preparedness and emergency response mechanisms.

The briefing followed the Third Philippines-Australia Bilateral Consular Consultations held earlier that day in Manila.

The Australian delegation was led by First Assistant Secretary Elizabeth McGregor, Head of the Consular and Crisis Management Division of the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). Ambassador Morales was joined by Consul General Jesus "Gary" R. S. Domingo of the Philippine Consulate General in Melbourne and Minister and Consul General Sheila Marie C. Tario of the Philippine Embassy in Canberra.

The delegation was welcomed by OCD officials led by Assistant Secretary Cesar M. Idio, Deputy Administrator for Operations.

The briefing highlighted the Philippines' disaster risk reduction and management framework, including mechanisms for interagency coordination, emergency response, and international humanitarian assistance. Discussions also focused on information sharing with foreign diplomatic missions and coordination in situations involving foreign nationals affected by disasters.

Ambassador Morales emphasized the importance of preparedness and close cooperation between disaster management authorities and consular officials in protecting lives and ensuring the safety and welfare of citizens during emergencies. For her part, First Assistant Secretary McGregor expressed appreciation for the opportunity to learn from the Philippines' extensive experience in disaster management and exchange perspectives on practical cooperation in crisis preparedness and response.

The engagement underscored the shared commitment of the Philippines and Australia to strengthening institutional cooperation and building disaster resilience under their Strategic Partnership, as the two countries commemorate the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2026. -END