An international think tank has commended the strengthened partnership between the Philippines and Australia, which has assured Manila that Canberra is a "reliable partner" in economic prosperity.
 

Dindo Manhit, president of Stratbase ADR Institute, said the group is supporting the deepening ties between the two countries, especially as Australia "has consistently been among countries most trusted by Filipinos."
 

The recent signing of a strategic partnership between President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. and Australian Prime Minister Antony Albanese also showed the progression for the two countries' flourishing relations, Manhit noted. 
 

"Over the last 77 years, our defense and economic ties have grown stronger, fortified by shared values and principles. The visit of the Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to Manila is a landmark initiative that highlights the central geopolitical value of the Philippines in the Indo-Pacific region," Manhit said.
 

He also cited the importance of the Philippine-Australia relationship, which is continuously strengthened by joint military exercises between troops of both sides, in enhancing regional security and prosperity through cooperation and partnership.

"Our elevated relationship with Australia assures us of a reliable friend and partner in economic prosperity. Our trade activities form a significant part of our relations, as evidenced by Australia’s release of its Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040, which includes cooperation with the Philippines," he said.
 

In their joint statement, Marcos and Albanese said they were "reaffirming their shared interests in building prosperity and preserving peace in the Indo-Pacific" as they declared the formation of a strategic partnership between the two countries.

"We recognize the stability in the region is anchored on respect for national sovereignty and shaped by long-standing agreed rules and norms, based on international law," the two leaders said.