Australia and PH hold inaugural defense ministers’ meeting amidst tensions in the West Philippine Sea

In response to China’s continuing aggressive actions in the West Philippine Sea, Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defense Richard Marles is hosting Philippine Defense Gilberto Teodoro Jr. for the first-ever Australia-Philippines Defense Ministers’ Meeting in Canberra.

This meeting is among the concrete steps Australia and the Philippines are taking to strengthen their defense ties.

“I am honored to welcome Secretary of National Defense Gilberto Teodoro Jr to Canberra for our inaugural Defense Ministers’ Meeting,” Marles said in a media release.

The meeting comes as both nations reaffirm their commitment to a stable, rules-based regional order where sovereignty is respected and international law is upheld.

Australia and the Philippines have a longstanding partnership based on mutual trust, cooperation, and a shared goal of enabling nations to make independent decisions without coercion.

During the meeting, Deputy Prime Minister Marles and Secretary Teodoro will explore further avenues for defense collaboration, including joint military exercises, regular maritime cooperation, and multilateral coordination efforts to address rising regional tensions.

“Australia and the Philippines have a shared commitment to regional security and a common vision for the region, where sovereignty is upheld. I look forward to discussing ways to deepen Defense cooperation, including through our Enhanced Defense Cooperation Program, to build capacity and strengthen interoperability,” Marles said.

This historic meeting highlights the growing Australia-Philippines defense relationship as they work together to counter destabilizing actions and reinforce their shared vision for a resilient, cooperative Indo-Pacific region.