Indonesian-Filipino Relations

Diplomatic relations between the countries were established on November 24, 1949 ^[1] . In 1949, the Indonesian government opened its representative office (consular office) in Manila , the embassy was opened in the early 1950s. On June 21, 1951, a friendship treaty was signed between the two countries. This Treaty defines the basis of relations between the two countries, its main tasks are: maintaining peace and friendship, resolving disputes by diplomatic and peaceful means, creating transport routes for citizens of both countries and measures to promote cooperation in the field of trade and cultural events. This Treaty also discusses the political and socio-economic issues of both countries.

In March 2011, the leaders of the two countries signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the aim of enhancing cooperation in the fields of security, defense, border delimitation, protecting the rights of migrant workers, education and sports. Indonesia is providing moral support to the Philippine government in their territorial dispute over the Spratly Islands .

The subject of territorial dispute between Indonesia and the Philippines was the water area of ​​the Sulawesi Sea in the area of ​​the islands of Sulawesi (Indonesia) and Mindanao (Philippines), which is considered a potential oil and gas source. In addition, the disputed waters are rich in fish, and there are important trade routes. The conflict between the countries lasts since 1994: the territories were in the exclusive economic zone of both Indonesia and the Philippines ^[2] . This dispute began between the Netherlands (which colonized Indonesia) and the United States (which occupied the Philippines after the end of the Spanish-American War ) and ended in favor of the Dutch East Indies in 1932. On May 23, 2014, the countries signed an agreement on a new maritime border between them. As Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yodhoyono stated, this is a good example of how to resolve disputes between states without the use of force. Philippine leader Benigno Aquino said his country wanted to end the conflict through legitimate and peaceful ways. ^[3]

According to the Ministry of Commerce of Indonesia, in 2003 the volume of trade between the countries amounted to 1.12 billion US dollars , in 2009 - 2.9 billion US dollars, and in 2010 already 3.89 billion US dollars. Indonesia is the largest coal supplier to the Philippines, meeting the country's demand by 70% ^[4] . In 2013, Indonesia was the 11th largest trade and economic partner of the Philippines, with a turnover of $ 3.51 billion ^[5] . In 2014, the volume of trade between countries reached the level of 4.59 billion US dollars ^[6] .

• Indonesian-Filipino relations on the website of the Indonesian Embassy in Manila . (eng.)