Philippines Sees Opportunities in Australia’s Diplomacy Program

Philippines sees Australia Now ASEAN, the public diplomacy program, open to new possibilities and opportunities for deeper collaboration. From sports to education, to start-ups and women empowerment, Philippines wants to be a beneficiary.

Mark Manantan, a research scholar says Philippines and Australia could use the growing traction to the achievements of the Philippine volcanoes (rugby team) to champion development programs centred on sports targeting the youth. Manantan said Australia can partner with the Philippine Sports Commission, through its sports diplomacy, and Commission on Higher Education and Department of Education to design programs or activities that raises the profile of rugby or other sporting activities.

Over the years through various development scholarships and professional exchanges under Australia awards and Endeavor Leadership Awards, Australia has attracted thousands of Filipinos poised to become leaders and changemakers.

Manantan says the Philippines has a young labour force that is expected to drive inclusive growth momentum and domestic consumption. He said it has a thriving local start-up scene that excludes potential but lacks resources to scale and benefit others. "The Philippine government recently passed the Innovation Startup Bill, marking a shift from the country's position as a passive aid recipient to an active player in the global value chain. Through Australia Now ASEAN, Australia can infuse further optimism and growth into the Philippines start-up ecosystem. The program could bring Australia's leading start-ups for a series of workshops and engagements in key cities such as Manila, Cebu and Davao." He said both Australia and the Philippines will benefit.