By Genalyn D. Kabiling
Amid the lingering threat of cross-border terrorism, the Philippines has sought to bolster maritime security cooperation with Indonesia to keep the lawless elements at bay.
The increased maritime cooperation was tackled during President Duterte’s meeting with Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi at the Presidential Guest House in Davao City last Wednesday.
“While declaring that the rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts in Marawi are in full swing, President Duterte said that he wants to intensify maritime security in cooperation with Indonesia as foreign and local terrorists continue to enter and exit the country despite the military efforts to go after these elements,” a Malacañang press statement said.
The Philippines had earlier forged an agreement with Indonesia and Malaysia to step up maritime security to combat terrorists, pirates, and other criminals in the region. Under the pact, the three nations agreed to coordinate naval patrols to secure the Sulu Sea, located northeast of Borneo and southwest of the Philippines.
Manila will also allow the two naval forces to pursue Islamic militants entering local waters as part of a border patrol arrangement.
Apart from boosting maritime and anti-terrorism cooperation, the Palace said Duterte and Marsudi also “agreed to elevate cooperation” on trade and education.
The President has voiced interest in resuming Philippines-Indonesia routes to boost trade relations with its Asian neighbor. Duterte was also keen on extending scholarship for Muslim students, especially those enrolled in the Madrasa institutions, according to the Palace.
Marsudi showed interest in pursuing a Philippine-Indonesia education program to “spread the Islamic values” in Southeast Asian nations, Malacanang said.
The Indonesian government offered to provide 300 passports for Indonesian descents living in Mindanao.
