Indonesian and Philippines Discuss Defense Modernization and Protection of Citizens

Manila: Indonesia and the Philippines have agreed to strengthen bilateral relations and expand cooperation in various fields, from politics and security to the economy, defense equipment modernization, and citizens protection.

The commitment was discussed during a meeting between Indonesian Foreign Minister Arrmanatha Nasir and Philippine Foreign Secretary Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro in Manila, Philippines, on Monday, November 2, 2026.

It was the first bilateral meeting between the two ministers, as well as Arrmanatha commonly known as Tata’s first visit to an ASEAN member country since becoming Indonesia's Foreign Minister.

During the meeting, both sides reaffirmed the partnership between Indonesia and the Philippines, which has lasted for more than seven decades. As neighbours and fellow founding members of ASEAN, the two countries share an interest in maintaining regional peace and stability.

"Indonesia and the Philippines are strongly committed to regional peace and stability. We will continue to strengthen our mutually beneficial partnership and work together to face various challenges," Arrmanatha said in a statement on the Indonesian Foreign Ministry's website.

On the economy, the two countries explored opportunities to increase trade and investment, including energy cooperation to support the resilience of regional supply chains.

Indonesia also expressed its readiness to support the modernization of the Philippines' defense equipment and to share its experience and expertise in developing the halal industry.

Consular cooperation and the protection of citizens were also discussed. One of the topics was the follow-up on issuing passports to nearly 1,600 Indonesian citizens registered in the Philippines, known as Registered Indonesian Nationals (RINs).

The two ministers also stressed the importance of updating the Plan of Action as a guide for developing bilateral cooperation in the future.

ASEAN stability and cross-border haze discussed

On regional issues, Arrmanatha praised the Philippines' leadership as ASEAN Chair for 2026. He also expressed Indonesia's support for the 49th ASEAN Summit, scheduled for mid-November.

The two ministers exchanged views on several regional issues and emphasized the importance of maintaining ASEAN's unity, centrality, and inclusiveness. They also discussed ASEAN's efforts to promote stability and peace in Myanmar.

Both sides also discussed how to handle forest and land fires and the risk of cross-border haze.

Arrmanatha explained Indonesia's ongoing efforts to prevent and handle forest and land fires, including firefighting and law enforcement.

Indonesia also stressed the importance of keeping communication open, improving coordination, and strengthening cooperation with neighboring countries, including through ASEAN mechanisms.

The meeting reaffirmed both countries' commitment to closer friendship and a forward-looking bilateral partnership, while supporting peace, stability, and prosperity in Southeast Asia.