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Manila Bulletin devider Embassies at Work devider Indonesia marks 80 years of independence, 76 years of Indonesia-PH diplomatic ties

Indonesia marks 80 years of independence, 76 years of Indonesia-PH diplomatic ties

Published Jan 5, 2026 03:52 pm
Ambassador Agus Widjojo and Mme Ranny Moerni Cahyani preside over the symbolic cutting of Tumpeng, joined in celebration by ambassadors representing Asian countries.
Ambassador Agus Widjojo and Mme Ranny Moerni Cahyani preside over the symbolic cutting of Tumpeng, joined in celebration by ambassadors representing Asian countries.
The Indonesian Embassy in Manila hosted a diplomatic reception at the New World Hotel Makati to mark two historic milestones: the 80th Anniversary of Indonesia’s Independence and the 76th Anniversary of Indonesia–Philippines bilateral relations.
The evening brought together dignitaries, ambassadors, fellow Indonesians, and friends of Indonesia. The guest of honor was Maria Andrelita S. Austria, Acting Undersecretary for International Economic Relations of the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs, representing the Secretary of Foreign Affairs.
Ambassador Agus Widjojo of the Embassy of Indonesia
Ambassador Agus Widjojo of the Embassy of Indonesia
In his address, Ambassador Agus Widjojo emphasized the symbolic significance of the numbers 80 and 76, representing both Indonesia’s resilience as a nation and the enduring friendship between Indonesia and the Philippines.
He highlighted Indonesia’s strategic shift toward sustainable and inclusive development, embodied in the national vision of Golden Indonesia 2045. This long-term plan seeks to balance economic growth with human-centered goals and environmental sustainability, reflected in this year’s independence theme: “United and Sovereign, Prosperous People, Advanced Indonesia.”
Raising a glass to enduring diplomatic relations — Ambassador Agus Widjojo with Maria Andrelita S. Austria, Acting Undersecretary for International Economic Relations of the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs.
Raising a glass to enduring diplomatic relations — Ambassador Agus Widjojo with Maria Andrelita S. Austria, Acting Undersecretary for International Economic Relations of the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs.
Ambassador Widjojo reaffirmed Indonesia’s commitment to its “free and active” foreign policy, which underscores independence in international relations while actively engaging in global political dynamics.
Regionally, he stressed that ASEAN unity and centrality remain the cornerstone of Indonesia’s foreign policy, vital for maintaining peace and stability in Southeast Asia.
The ambassador celebrated 76 years of Indonesia–Philippines relations, noting robust cooperation across defense, security, trade, investment, and socio-cultural exchanges.
Ambassador Ricardo Luis Bocalandro of Argentina with Ambassador See Sin Yuan Angelita Constance of Singapore, and Ambassador Christian Halaas Lyster of Norway
Ambassador Ricardo Luis Bocalandro of Argentina with Ambassador See Sin Yuan Angelita Constance of Singapore, and Ambassador Christian Halaas Lyster of Norway
Indonesia is currently the Philippines’ largest trading partner in ASEAN, while the Philippines ranks among Indonesia’s top export destinations worldwide. Collaborative efforts span sectors such as medical equipment, energy, and the creative economy, with growing investment flows between the two nations. He praised the Philippines for its support in protecting Indonesian nationals abroad, citing assistance in shelters, repatriation, and humanitarian efforts.
Ambassador Widjojo extended condolences to the Philippines for the recent earthquake and typhoon, expressing solidarity with affected families. He lauded the resilience of the Filipino people, affirming their ability to rise with hope and promise.
He also congratulated President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on receiving the ASEAN Chairmanship gavel from Malaysia, pledging Indonesia’s full support for the Philippines’ leadership in 2026 under the theme “Navigating Our Future Together.”
Ambassador Gilberto Fonseca Guimarães de Moura of Brazil with Mme. Akiko Endo and spouse Ambassador Endo Kazuya of Japan
Ambassador Gilberto Fonseca Guimarães de Moura of Brazil with Mme. Akiko Endo and spouse Ambassador Endo Kazuya of Japan
Zyra, Ambassador Bartinah Ntombizodwa Radebe-Netshitenzhe of South Africa, and Pablo Osias ,Chief Finance and Marketing Officer of Philindo Container Express Inc.
Zyra, Ambassador Bartinah Ntombizodwa Radebe-Netshitenzhe of South Africa, and Pablo Osias ,Chief Finance and Marketing Officer of Philindo Container Express Inc.
Mme. Indri Puspitasari Akyol with Ambassador Megawati Manan of Brunei, and Ambassador Niyazi Evren Akyol of Turkiye
Mme. Indri Puspitasari Akyol with Ambassador Megawati Manan of Brunei, and Ambassador Niyazi Evren Akyol of Turkiye
Ambassador Anna Ferry of Sweden with Marivic Rufino and Mme. Cathrine Lykke Riseng Lyster
Ambassador Anna Ferry of Sweden with Marivic Rufino and Mme. Cathrine Lykke Riseng Lyster
Michaella O. Lagniton, director of the UST Office of Public Affairs with Indonesia Embassy’s Avi Dewani Sari Harahap, Minister Counsellor for Social & Cultural Affairs; Chot Reyes of the Social and Cultural Affairs
Michaella O. Lagniton, director of the UST Office of Public Affairs with Indonesia Embassy’s Avi Dewani Sari Harahap, Minister Counsellor for Social & Cultural Affairs; Chot Reyes of the Social and Cultural Affairs
The evening was enriched by cultural performances from Komite Seni Budaya Nusantara, who traveled from Aceh, Jakarta, and East Kalimantan, alongside the UST Salinggawi Dance Troupe.
The reception concluded with a toast to the lasting friendship between Indonesia and the Philippines, celebrating the health of leaders and guests present.
The diplomatic reception not only commemorated Indonesia’s independence and bilateral milestones but also reaffirmed the shared values, history, and aspirations that continue to bind Indonesia and the Philippines. As both nations look toward 2045, their partnership stands as a testament to resilience, cooperation, and mutual respect.
Cultural performances from Komite Seni Budaya Nusantara, all the way from Aceh, Jakarta, and East Kalimantan
Cultural performances from Komite Seni Budaya Nusantara, all the way from Aceh, Jakarta, and East Kalimantan
Dynamic cultural performances full of passion and artistry
Dynamic cultural performances full of passion and artistry
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