In a significant move to enhance bilateral relations, the Philippines and Palau have signed three pivotal agreements during a two-day official visit by Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr. to Manila. The visit, which took place on February 24, 2025, was marked by a warm welcome from Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. at Malacañang Palace, highlighting the deepening friendship between the two nations.
The first agreement, a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on Policy Consultations, was signed between the foreign ministries of both countries. This MOU establishes a formal mechanism for exchanging views on bilateral, regional, and international issues of mutual interest. This step is expected to foster closer cooperation and understanding between the Philippines and Palau on various fronts.
The second agreement focuses on technical cooperation in agriculture and fisheries. It includes a study visit by Palauan officials and stakeholders to various Philippine facilities. These visits will encompass training institutions, hatcheries, research facilities, and local markets, allowing the Palauan delegation to gain insights into the best practices employed by the Philippines in these sectors. This initiative aims to enhance Palau’s capabilities in sustainable agriculture and fisheries management through experiential learning and knowledge exchange.
The third agreement, an MOU on fisheries cooperation, was signed between the Department of Agriculture and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources of the Philippines, and the Ministries of Fisheries and the Environment of Palau. This agreement is designed to promote sustainable development in the fisheries sector through conservation efforts, joint fishing ventures, collaborative research, and measures to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing. This cooperation is crucial for both nations, given their reliance on marine resources for economic and food security.
In addition to these agreements, President Marcos expressed optimism about concluding a labor cooperation agreement with Palau within the year. This forthcoming pact aims to safeguard the welfare of the approximately 4,000 Filipinos living and working in Palau. It will also facilitate the early conclusion of a social security agreement, ensuring that Filipino workers in Palau have access to essential social benefits.
President Marcos also highlighted discussions with President Whipps on formal cooperation in health and human resources development. He emphasized the urgency of finalizing negotiations in these critical areas to further strengthen the partnership between the two countries.
Reflecting on the historical ties between the Philippines and Palau, President Marcos noted that their friendship is rooted in a shared struggle for independence and freedom, as well as strong cultural affinities. He reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to working closely with Pacific nations to shape the future of the region and support efforts to enhance disaster resilience.
The leaders also committed to ongoing dialogue on maritime boundary delimitation, a significant issue for both nations given their geographic proximity and shared maritime interests. As the two countries approach the 30th anniversary of their diplomatic relations in 2027, these new agreements and ongoing discussions underscore a robust and evolving partnership between the Philippines and Palau.