DILI, 27 january 2026 (TATOLI) – A bilateral meeting at the Senior Officials Meeting (SOM) level was held between Milena Rangel, Vice Minister for ASEAN Affairs and SOM Leader of Timor-Leste, and Leo M. Herrera Lim, Undersecretary for Policy of the Department of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines and ASEAN-Philippines SOM Leader.
The discussions covered a range of areas including economic cooperation and investment opportunities, visa facilitation, technical cooperation and capacity-building, tourism promotion, and public communication.
Both sides welcomed the visa exemption arrangements for diplomatic and service passport holders and expressed a shared commitment to expanding facilitation for ordinary passport holders.
The meeting concluded with mutual appreciation and a pledge to sustain engagement ahead of upcoming ASEAN meetings and Summits.
Since establishing formal relations upon Timor-Leste’s independence in 2002, the Philippines has demonstrated unwavering support through various channels—from the crucial contributions of Filipino peacekeepers and development workers during the UN transitional period to the ongoing presence of hundreds of Filipino educators shaping Timor-Leste’s next generation. This enduring relationship is further strengthened by the Philippines’ consistent advocacy for Timor-Leste’s ASEAN membership bid since 2011, complemented by sustained technical assistance and capacity-building initiatives that underscore both nations’ dedication to fostering regional integration and mutual growth.
The Philippines has been a steadfast friend of Timor-Leste since our independence, and even before. From peacekeeping missions to education, Filipino expertise and dedication have contributed significantly to Timor-Leste’s development.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
