The Philippines and Brunei on Tuesday signed three memoranda of understanding (MOUs) and one letter of intent (LOI) to enhance bilateral cooperation.
The MOUs cover tourism cooperation, mutual recognition of standards for training, certification, and watchkeeping (STCW) certificates, and maritime collaboration.
Meanwhile, the LOI renews a previous agreement on food security and agricultural cooperation.
“And for that, we hope to expand the partnerships that we have begun and we feel that there is much potential that we can examine,” President Marcos said in his meeting with Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah.
Bolkiah, on the other hand, expressed optimism about strengthening ties as the countries celebrate 40 years of diplomatic relations. “I believe that we are commemorating this significant occasion through visits,” the Sultan told Mr. Marcos.
“I’m looking forward to further enhancing our friendship in areas of future interest, which I believe will greatly benefit our countries and people,” Bolkiah added.
The MOU on tourism, signed by the Department of Tourism (DOT) and Brunei’s Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT), aims to boost tourism projects and promote Muslim-friendly destinations.
The STCW agreement allows both countries to recognize each other’s certification standards, updating a previous agreement from 2001. The maritime cooperation MOU, on the other hand, focuses on pollution control, skills training, research, and information sharing.
Meanwhile, the LOI between the Department of Agriculture (DA) and Brunei’s Agriculture and Agrifood Department (AAD) highlights shared interests in food security and sustainable agriculture.