Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 18)— The trip of presumptive president Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and his family to Australia was a personal visit without official arrangements, the Australian ambassador to the Philippines said on Tuesday.
Speaking to reporters in an event in Makati City, Ambassador Steven Robinson said apart from visa requirements, the embassy was unaware of other details.
“It was a private trip initiated by the presumptive president,” Robinson said.
“Beyond getting visas in order to get to Australia, the presumptive president’s trip is no way official, no way formal, so good luck to him, everyone should visit Australia,” he added.
Last week, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison acknowledged Marcos’ victory in the presidential race.
“I congratulate Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on being elected President of the Philippines at the national elections on 9 May. Following the 75th anniversary of Australia-Philippines relations last year, we look forward to continuing to advance our long-standing friendship,” he said in a tweet.
Meanwhile, Robinson said there were no arrangements for a meeting between Marcos and Morrison.
“I don’t think there’s anything set up. This is a private trip, this is not coordinated by us,” he said.
Marcos spokesman Vic Rodriguez earlier said the Australia trip was for rest and family vacation.
Marcos is expected to return on Thursday.
Welcome protests
A number of Filipinos in Australia protested against the trip Down Under.
Anakbayan Melbourne said tyrants are not welcome in Australia as it expressed opposition to the Marcos-Duterte tandem.
Rodriguez slammed the protests and said it was embarrassing.
