Malacañan Palace
February 24, 2025
“Ours is a friendship borne out of the common struggle for independence and for freedom. It is rooted in the strong historical ties and cultural affinity between Filipinos and Palauans that remain to this day,” remarked President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. during a joint press conference with President Surangel Whipps Jr. of the Republic of Palau at the President’s Hall in Malacañan Palace.
In his speech, President Marcos Jr. reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to strengthening ties with Palau, focusing on maritime cooperation, labor protection and economic development.
Both nations agreed to enhance partnerships in fisheries conservation and combat illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing. With 4,000 Filipinos working in Palau, efforts are underway to finalize labor and social security agreements to protect their welfare.
Plans include expanding cooperation in health, agriculture, and technical-vocational education and training (TVET). The Philippines also aims to support Palau’s renewable energy and construction sectors with high-quality, cost-effective materials.
“I reiterated the Philippines’ commitment to be a trusted partner, an innovative pathfinder, and a dedicated peacebuilder. I look forward to advancing initiatives with Palau that will help achieve a sustainable, resilient, and inclusive future for our region,” the Chief Executive conveyed.
“Our growing trade relations are an undeniable indicator of meaningful opportunities in Philippines-Palau economic relations,” President Marcos Jr. concluded in his speech.
In response, President Whipps Jr. noted that while both countries took different paths to independence, their struggles were marked by resilience and determination.
“Today, the Philippines and Palau stand united by a relationship steeped in our shared past, fostering cultural bonds and familial ties, alongside a mutual commitment to peace, democracy, and the rule of law. As we navigate contemporary challenges, it is imperative that we engage diplomatically and collaborate closely. And as I often say, we are stronger together,” President Whipps Jr. expressed in his message.
* * *