Four economic, cultural, and defense agreements were signed between the governments of the Philippines and Indonesia during the first state visit of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to the said country.
The four agreements were presented to Marcos and Indonesian President Joko Widodo at Istana Bogor, where they both gave statements.
Among the four are the Plan of Action between the Philippines and Indonesia from 2022 to 2027; the Memorandum of Understanding related to cultural cooperation; the Agreement on Cooperative Activities in the field of defense and security between the government of the Philippines and Indonesia; and fourth is the Memorandum of Understanding for Cooperation in the Development and Promotion of Creative Economy.
In his speech, Marcos thanked Indonesia for its assistance and participation in infrastructure programs during the era of former President Rodrigo Duterte.
Meanwhile, Marcos and Widodo described the role of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) as a “lead agent” in bringing peace amid ongoing international issues.
Marcos also said that the “regional bloc” role is important to the region’s security and the attainment of peace.
Philippines and Indonesia sign 4 agreements
Widodo said that Indonesia wants to ensure that ASEAN remains a path of peace, stability, and development in the region. He also said that ASEAN must be able to face future challenges and strengthen respect for the ASEAN Charter.
Widodo emphasized the importance of implementing the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific through concrete and inclusive cooperation to strengthen the core of ASEAN.
Marcos added that his visit to Jakarta is just the beginning of many meaningful partnerships that the two countries are set to carry out.
Meanwhile, the parents of Mary Jane Veloso asked President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to appeal to Indonesian President Joko Widodo to grant executive clemency to their daughter. She is on death row in the said country.
In the letter, the couple Cesar and Celia Veloso said they got information that Marcos would be going to Indonesia for a state visit. Therefore, it is said that this may be the right opportunity to appeal Mary Jane’s condition.
Mary Jane Veloso was scheduled to be sentenced to death by firing squad in 2015, but it was not continued due to the appeal of then President Benigno Aquino III.
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