The Philippines and Indonesia have committed to expanding bilateral cooperation in maritime security, border management, and economic relations. The pledge was made during talks in Manila between Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro and Indonesia’s newly appointed foreign minister, Arrmanatha “Tata” Christiawan Nasir.
Nasir’s visit marks his introductory trip to the country since taking office last month. During the meeting, both officials reviewed their bilateral relations as maritime neighbors and founding members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
Building on the outcomes of the eighth Philippines-Indonesia Joint Commission on Bilateral Cooperation held in Jakarta on April 23, the two sides agreed to fast-track a new five-year Plan of Action. The upcoming framework will guide collaboration across political, economic, maritime, legal, and consular domains, alongside support for development in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao and increased people-to-people exchanges.
The ministers also addressed regional and international issues involving ASEAN and the United Nations, emphasizing the need for joint action against transboundary haze and steady progress toward resolving the crisis in Myanmar.
Lazaro thanked Indonesia for supporting the Philippines’ upcoming ASEAN chairmanship, highlighting their shared dedication to maintaining ASEAN unity and centrality. The 49th ASEAN Summit and its related meetings are scheduled to take place in Manila this month.
The visit coincides with Indonesia’s efforts to maintain foreign policy continuity and strengthen its regional diplomatic presence.
Manila and Jakarta, which established diplomatic ties on November 24, 1949, will mark their 77th anniversary of formal relations later this month.