President Marcos Jr. on Friday commended outgoing Australian Ambassador to the Philippines, HK Yu, for her pivotal role in deepening the diplomatic relationship between the Philippines and Australia.

During a farewell courtesy call at Malacañan Palace, Marcos conferred on Yu the Order of Sikatuna, Rank of Datu (Grand Cross), Gold Distinction, in recognition of her “many significant contributions to strengthening the bilateral ties between the Philippines and the Commonwealth of Australia.”

The Order of Sikatuna is the Philippines’ national order of diplomatic merit, awarded to individuals who have rendered exceptional service to the Republic in the field of international relations.

Marcos highlighted the elevation of ties between the Philippines and Australia to a strategic partnership under Yu, a milestone reflecting the growing breadth and depth of bilateral cooperation between both countries. 

The President, likewise, praised Yu for her “outstanding and dedicated service,” describing her as an “exceptionally worthy and competent representative” of Australia in the Philippines.

Further, Marcos expressed gratitude for the ambassador’s unwavering support in promoting high-level dialogues and government-to-government engagements. Her efforts, he said, paved the way for numerous bilateral agreements and initiatives.

Yu was instrumental in expanding cooperation across key sectors aligned with Philippine priorities, including education, agriculture, environmental protection, defense, and maritime domain awareness.

Marcos also lauded her role in securing Australian humanitarian assistance during natural disasters and in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The award further recognized Yu’s “many laudable initiatives to foster amity and mutual appreciation between the Filipino and Australian peoples.”

Before she was appointed as the Australian Ambassador to the Philippines in 2022, Yu served as Deputy Head of Mission at the Australian Embassy in Japan and held senior positions within Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, and Treasury.

She will be succeeded by Marc Innes-Brown, a seasoned diplomat who has previously served as Australia’s Ambassador to Türkiye, Iran, and Iraq, and held postings in Thailand and the United States.