Following a productive meeting from May 28 to May 29 with Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. sealed several agreements aimed at boosting the maritime, tourism, and agricultural sectors in both the Philippines and Brunei. These agreements signify a strengthened partnership between the two nations, promising substantial mutual benefits.
Enhancing Maritime Collaboration
One of the key agreements signed was a memorandum of agreement (MOA) on the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) certificates. This agreement aligns with the 1978 STCW Convention, which governs the approval of seafarers in member countries. Communications Secretary Cheloy Garafil highlighted that this deal will facilitate mutual recognition of seafarers' certificates, ensuring smoother operations and higher standards within the maritime sectors of both nations.
Additionally, a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on skills training, research, and information sharing between the maritime sectors was signed. This MOU aims to enhance the skills and knowledge of seafarers, fostering a more competent and efficient maritime workforce.
Promoting Muslim-Friendly Tourism
The tourism sectors of the Philippines and Brunei also received a significant boost with the signing of an MOU on cooperative tourism projects. This agreement aims to increase tourist arrivals and promote niche tourism development, particularly Islamic tourism and Muslim-friendly destinations.
President Marcos expressed optimism that this collaboration would attract Bruneian tourists to explore the diverse offerings of the Philippines. He emphasized that the quality of tourists is more important than the quantity, and this MOU is expected to bring in discerning visitors who appreciate the unique cultural and natural attractions of the Philippines.
Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco noted that 6,639 Bruneians visited the Philippines last year. She anticipates that the new MOU will lead to significant advancements in tourism for both nations, especially through collaborative efforts to expand Muslim-friendly tourism initiatives.
Strengthening Agricultural Ties
The bilateral talks also resulted in a letter of intent to renew an MOU on food security and agricultural cooperation. This agreement underscores the commitment of both nations to ensure food security and enhance agricultural productivity through shared knowledge and resources.
The official delegation accompanying President Marcos included key figures such as Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo, Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista, Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla, Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual, and Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac. Their presence underscored the comprehensive nature of the discussions and the multifaceted approach to enhancing bilateral relations.
