PH, Palau boost cooperation in fisheries, labor, social security

The Philippines and Palau have agreed to strengthen their cooperation in the fishery, maritime, social security, and labor sectors.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. highlighted discussions on a framework for fisheries cooperation aimed at improving aquaculture through best practices, technology sharing, capacity building, and fisheries infrastructure development.

Both nations are also finalizing a labor cooperation deal for over 4,000 Filipino workers in Palau and a social security agreement to guarantee them social benefits.

Discussions also included technical and vocational training for their labor forces, as well as conservation and cooperation on illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing practices.

The leaders acknowledged their nations' shared history and discussed partnerships in health, human resource development, and agriculture.

Palau's President Surangel Whipps Jr. noted that collaborations between their respective fisheries agencies will prioritize promoting aquaculture ventures.