
PH, Indonesia transport leaders meet in Jakarta
DEPARTMENT of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Jaime J. Bautista met with Indonesian Transport Minister Budi K. Sumadi at the Ministry of Transportation in Jakarta on September 6, 2023, on the sidelines of the 43rd ASEAN Leaders’ Summit held in Jakarta on September 4-7, 2023.
Secretary Bautista and Minister Budi exchanged views on how to expand transport cooperation and connectivity between the Philippines and Indonesia, including the resumption of Manado – Davao flights or commencing Manado – Manila flights, and possible reopening of Bitung-General Santos-Davao Ro-Ro services. Other transportation matters such as railways, e-vehicles (EVs), and the ongoing development at the Indonesian new capital city Nusantara, were likewise discussed.
The two Ministers committed to conduct further meetings moving forward, and made plans to enter into a cooperation MOU in maritime professionals training. Said proposal would allow the sharing of best practices and training between maritime students of both countries, and allow the Philippines to highlight its experiences in the field of maritime training and as major sources of countries for seafarers in the world.
The Philippine Embassy in Jakarta facilitated the meeting between the two Ministers.