Australia names new ambassador to the Philippines

Metro Manila, Philippines – Australia has appointed seasoned diplomat Marc Innes-Brown as its next ambassador to the Philippines, replacing envoy HK Yu PSM, who has served in Manila since 2022.

In a statement released Wednesday, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong announced Innes-Brown’s appointment. He is expected to assume his new post later this year.

“Australia and the Philippines share a long partnership and a deep friendship built on mutual trust and cooperation, and a commitment to a peaceful, stable and prosperous region,” Wong said.

She noted that the relationship between Australia and the Philippines was elevated to a Strategic Partnership in 2023, following a meeting between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

The partnership has since focused on boosting collaboration in defense and maritime security, trade and investment, development cooperation, education exchanges, and the energy transition.

Wong said the diplomatic relationship is also supported by strong people-to-people ties, with over 400,000 Australians of Filipino heritage, making them the fifth-largest migrant community in Australia.

Veteran diplomat

Innes-Brown is a senior career officer with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. He was most recently first assistant secretary of the Middle East and Africa Division.

He was also a former ambassador to Türkiye, Iran, and Iraq, and held diplomatic postings in Thailand and the United States.

Wong expressed her gratitude to Yu, who led Australia’s mission in Manila through a critical period in regional diplomacy and bilateral engagement.

“I thank outgoing Ambassador Ms. HK Yu PSM for her contributions to advancing Australia’s interests in the Philippines since 2022,” Wong said.