Blood compact

As my time in the Philippines concludes, it is time to reflect on my three years as Ambassador.

Serving in such a role conveys a privileged status which has not always sat easily with me. I am, after all, just an Australian public servant from a very normal background. Australia is a largely egalitarian country where respect is earnt rather than gained by office. This can manifest negatively in the cutting down of tall poppies, but I see it as a positive characteristic that tempers the powerful. Aussies are irreverent and Sir and Ma’am are not commonly heard expressions where I come from!

One of the benefits of being Australian Ambassador is the access granted to the movers and shakers of the Philippines. I have experienced an open door and willing ear from the highest offices in the land to the local government level. The art of diplomacy is not widely understood by the general public, but the opportunity to hear mutual perspectives directly and to talk through commonalities and differences is invaluable in enhancing understanding and avoiding misunderstanding.

One of the most difficult parts of the job is conveying messages that may provoke irritation. There are times when doing this publicly, such as in a United Nations forum (or through Twitter!), makes sense but often these frank exchanges take place in private meetings between counterparts. In my experience here, there has always been a mutual willingness to listen, debate, refute and often to take on constructive criticisms in both directions.

But what unites Australia and the Philippines is strong. This was no more evident to me than in Australia’s rapid, game-changing support to the Armed Forces of the Philippines during and since the Marawi siege. I visited Marawi recently and was taken aback by the extent of the destruction. There is no more powerful symbol of the need for us to work together to defeat those who would seek to destroy the freedoms that we hold dear. We are also both middle power, democratic nations relying on respect for international norms and rules rather than “might is right.”

I have learnt so much about the Philippines since I arrived three years ago, but feel I have only dipped my toe in the water. This is a complex and diverse country and it can be hard for a visitor to fathom.  For example, I acknowledge the Philippines’ admirable leadership in gender equality but I do not understand why contraception is not widely available and reproductive rights not more advanced.  There can at times seem a casual disregard for human life and an ambivalence towards the confronting levels of poverty in such a fast-growing economy.  

Encouragingly, the commitment of the Philippine people to democracy is reassuring. The dynamism of the media is a hallmark of this robust democracy and should be safeguarded. The resilience of the Philippine people in the face of disaster has been humbling for me, although sometimes frustrating that people do not demand more. I have greatly admired those who speak up in support of the marginalised, often at high personal cost. I am very hopeful that lasting peace will be achieved by the Bangsamoro.

In my experience, the Philippines hides its light too much under a bushel. Its wonders do not smack you in the face as they do in many other countries. It is, though, a country that amply rewards persistence and effort by those of us lucky enough to live here for a while.

My burgeoning fridge magnet collection is testament to the fact that I have travelled the length and breadth of this land, visiting some destinations multiple times and around 30 islands. This has enhanced my appreciation of the rich cultural diversity and the breathtaking natural beauty. Like the Sikatuna blood compact, I will always be a friend of the Philippines and it will forever have a place in my heart. Mabuhay!