Sydney, 24 April 2004 – In continuing with her official visit to Australia, Foreign Affairs Secretary Delia Domingo Albert commended the Filipino community in New South Wales, whose leaders she met today at the Shangri-la Hotel in Sydney, for the contributions they made to Philippines-Australia relations.   

“Historically, we have been allied on the side of democracy and victory over global and regional wars and conflict.  Economically, we subscribe to market capitalism and espouse free market principles.  Culturally, we both have a multi-cultural base and believe in the equality of all men.  We share democratic traditions and values, believe in the inherent rights of people to freedom and justice.  More importantly, the Philippines and Australia share the sturdiest of bridges between the Philippines and Australia, namely the presence of more than 200,000 Filipinos.  I am confident that all of you will work hard to contribute efforts in strengthening that relationship,” Secretary Albert said, emphasizing the commonalities shared by the Philippines and Australia.

The Secretary told the Filipino community leaders that her visit had provided her with the opportunity to meet key officials of the Australian government namely, Foreign Minister Alexander Downer, Attorney General Philip Ruddock, and Parliament Secretary for Foreign Affairs Christine Gallus, with whom she discussed political, economic and security relations, including the enhancement of RP-Australia anti-terrorism capabilities.  

Secretary Albert took the opportunity to explain to her audience the objectives of Philippine foreign policy: 1) the promotion of national security; 2) the advancement of the country’s economic development; and 3) safeguarding the rights and upliftment of the welfare of overseas Filipinos. According to the  Secretary, promoting these three pillars of foreign policy serves as the basis for her dealing with her counterparts abroad in pursuit of the country’s national interests.

Secretary Albert also conveyed the Philippine government’s appreciation for the Filipino community’s contributions to the economic and social progress of the Philippines.  Australia has the highest source of remittances in the Oceania region, capturing 94% of the regional share at US$ 39.8 million.  Aside from
remittances and investments, Filipinos in Australia have also made generous donations to underprivileged groups for the funding of relief and rehabilitation, education, health, water, sanitation, and livelihood assistance
projects. 

In mentioning the Department of Tourism’s Philippine Health Tourism Program (PHTP), the Secretary encouraged overseas Filipinos to support Philippine tourism.  The PHTP aims to promote medical tourism combined with special itineraries showcasing the Philippines’ best tourist attractions.  

During her meeting with the Filipino community leaders, the Secretary also remarked that 2003 marked the passing of landmark laws that would benefit overseas Filipinos, referring to the Overseas Absentee Voting Law and the Philippine Citizenship Retention and Reacquisition Act, also known as the Dual Citizenship Act.  She encouraged the members of the Filipino community to actively participate in the electoral process and to avail of the benefits accorded to Filipino citizens.  

Secretary Albert also noted the contributions of Filipinos to Australian society.  “I have heard of your efforts to make your voice heard as Filipino-Australians, of how you are now endeavouring to finish through collective efforts the Filipino Multi-Purpose Center in Rooty Hill,” she said. 

She also hailed the move of Filipinos to run for elected positions and the almost successful attempt at capturing a council seat in the recently concluded local elections despite heavy odds.  “I congratulate you for your continuing efforts and see these as something to aspire for, which is really a step in the right direction,” the Secretary said.  

She challenged the Filipino community to “continue to keep the Filipino spirit alive.”  “I call on the Filipino community to support these worthwhile endeavours.  Let our best character as a people shine throughout the world through you,” said the Secretary.  

New South Wales is home to fifty percent of Philippine-born migrants in Australia.  Based on the Australian Bureau of Statistics Census of 2001, the community is the 7th largest overseas-born group, comprising of 63,667 Philippine-born migrants. Secretary Albert through a series of television and newspaper interviews was able to reach out to the approximately 200,000 Filipino migrants to Australia.  END.