Marcos returns to the Philippines after addressing Australian parliament

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. delivers his message at Maharlika Villamor Airbase, Pasay city, before he left for Canberra, Australia on Wednesday morning, February 28, 2024. (File photo from INQUIRER  / NIÑO JESUS ORBETA)

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. returned to the Philippines on Thursday after his two-day state visit in Australia.

The Presidential Communications Office said that the President’s plane landed in Manila  at around 8:30 pm.

During his stay in Australia, Marcos addressed the Australian parliament.

He renewed his promise to defend Philippine sovereignty amid threats in the South China Sea.

“The closer cooperation in this field was fully emphasized in my speech to the esteemed Parliament of Australia—the first ever for a Filipino President. I similarly highlighted our steadfast support for regional peace and harmony, to which many of our forefathers paid the ultimate price in World War II,” said Marcos in his arrival statement.

“I conveyed to Australian legislators the important role of both our countries as proponents of the rules-based international order and its significance amidst the present complexities in global geopolitics,” he added.

The President also told Australia that developed countries must help countries disproportionately affected by climate change.

During his stay, Marcos also had a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, as well as other Australian lawmakers.

Marcos also witnessed the signing of three deals between Australia and the Philippines, with one pertaining to maritime cooperation.

The other deals tackle cyber technology and competition policies.

The President will return to Australia in four days for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations – Australia Summit.