European Union marks 25 years in the Philippines

European Union Ambassador Franz Jessen, together with Vice Dean of the Diplomatic Corps Ambassador

Christian Anthony Vihruri of Papua New Guinea, led the official celebrations that marked the silver anniversary of the Delegation of the European Union to the Philippines.

Over the years, the EU has been providing development support to the Philippines in various aspects, with assistance mostly focusing on the areas of rural development, health and the environment through government and non-government organizations spread out all over the country.

Both the European Union and EU member states have given grants amounting to €533 million from 2012 to 2014. Under the current assistance program, two priority sectors are being given focus: inclusive growth through access to sustainable energy and job creation, and the strengthening of the rule of law through judicial and legal reforms.

From being a group comprising 12 members in 1991, the EU has since grown with a total of 28 members. In terms of bilateral trade between the Philippines and EU, the € 2.5 billion in 1990 has since increased to almost €13 billion today. Relations have also evolved from the EU being the stronger import partner to becoming a stronger export partner, emerging as the largest foreign investor into the Philippines. Both the EU and the Philippines will be engaging in their first round of negotiations for a bilateral Free Trade Agreement or FTA covering a broad range of issues including the elimination of customs duties and other trade barriers, investment protection and access to public procurement markets.

In the last 25 years, several milestones have been achieved. In July 2012, a landmark partnership and cooperation agreement was signed between the Philippines and the EU. This covered political, security, economic and social affairs. While it has yet to be ratified by all EU member-nations, the agreement will serve as a solid basis for enhanced cooperation in trade, development cooperation, research and innovation as well as human rights and political issues.

European Union Ambassador Franz Jessen addressing the guests.

Ambassador Martin Slabber of South Africa and David Strachan of New Zealand.

Thai Ambassador Thanatip Upatising and Spanish Ambassador Luis Calvo.

Ambassadors Rodrigo Souza of Brazil, Igor Khovaev of Russia and Julio Camarena of Mexico in a discussion.

Monaco Consul General Fortune Ledesma, Tingting Cojuangco and Anajean Guevarra.

Bangladeshi Ambassador John Gomes and Singaporean Ambassador Kok Li Peng in a light moment.

Chinese Ambassador Zhao Jianhua and Presidential Adviser on Political Affairs Ronald Llamas.

Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Lingling Lacanlale.