Study Room, Malacañan Palace
July 25, 2025

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. received Ambassador Hae Kyong Yu of the Embassy of the Commonwealth of Australia to the Philippines during a farewell call at the Study Room in Malacañan Palace.

As the envoy concludes her diplomatic mission to the country, the President awarded her the Order of Sikatuna with the Rank of Datu (Grand Cross) Gold Distinction in recognition of her many significant contributions to strengthening the bilateral ties between the Philippines and Australia, which were elevated to a Strategic Partnership in 2023.

Her steadfast efforts fostered high-level dialogues and exchanges between the two nations.  Her support and assistance also helped conclude numerous government-to-government cooperation agreements, including development cooperation to support the Philippines’ priorities in education, agriculture, environment, defense and maritime domain.

She also led efforts to secure humanitarian and other types of Australian government aid during natural disasters and following the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Order of Sikatuna was established in 1953 and is conferred by the President of the Republic of the Philippines to recognize individuals who have provided exceptional and meritorious service to the country.  It also honors diplomats, officials and nationals of foreign states who have displayed outstanding efforts in promoting, developing, and strengthening relations between their country and the Philippines. Additionally, it includes personnel of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), both at the Home Office and within the Foreign Service.

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