Philippines and Mongolia Launch English Training Program
The Philippines and Mongolia have taken a significant step forward by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to pilot an English-training program designed for Mongolian civil servants and rural officials. This initiative will enable Mongolian government employees to enhance their English skills by studying in the Philippines, a country recognized for its strong English language education.
The announcement was made during a joint press conference held in Pasay City on May 19, 2025, by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary and the Mongolian Foreign Minister. According to sources familiar with the matter, the program will be organized by the Technical Cooperation Council of the Philippines, aiming to boost Mongolia’s capacity in foreign language proficiency.
DFA Secretary expressed optimism about this cooperation, highlighting the Philippines’ extensive experience in regional development and language training. “I have just exchanged diplomatic notes with Minister Battsetseg regarding the pilot program for Mongolians to study English in the Philippines,” he shared after their bilateral meeting.
Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation Beyond Language
The Mongolian Foreign Minister acknowledged the Philippines’ leadership in English education and emphasized that this collaboration will support the development of Mongolian youth and civil servants in global fields. She also praised the initiative as a means to advance inclusive regional development.
During her two-day visit to Manila, the Mongolian official met with key Philippine leaders, marking the first visit by a Mongolian foreign minister since 1984. This visit reciprocated the Philippine Foreign Secretary’s tour to Mongolia last year, underscoring the growing ties between the two nations.
Agri and Labor Partnership
The discussions also covered agricultural cooperation and labor relations, with an MOU on agricultural cooperation nearing completion. This aligns with Mongolia’s National Food Supply and Security Campaign, demonstrating the countries’ commitment to addressing global concerns like food and labor security.
Furthermore, the Philippines welcomed Mongolia’s proposed labor agreement aimed at protecting the rights and welfare of Filipino workers residing in Mongolia, who number around five hundred. Both sides expressed a mutual desire to establish frameworks ensuring the safety and well-being of these workers.
Expanding Economic and Trade Relations
Economic officials from both countries, including representatives from the Department of Economy and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, joined the meeting to discuss ways to deepen trade ties and economic cooperation. The DFA Secretary noted the “immense potential” for growth in their bilateral relations.
The Philippines also appreciated Mongolia’s participation in the recent High-Level Conference on Middle-Income Countries, which produced the Makati Declaration. Both countries share an interest in sustaining their development trajectories as middle-income nations.
Shared Values and Regional Cooperation
Beyond trade and education, the two Asian democracies reaffirmed their commitment to shared values such as freedom, human rights, and the rule of law. They underscored the importance of upholding the United Nations Charter and peaceful dispute resolution, as outlined in the 1982 Manila Declaration.
Both officials reiterated their countries’ support for the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and expressed a shared vision for a world free of nuclear weapons. While the Philippines pursues an independent foreign policy, Mongolia highlighted its “Third Neighbor Policy” and the significance it places on its relationship with the Philippines.
Mongolia also expressed interest in becoming a central dialogue partner of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), with the Philippines offering full support for this aspiration.
Commitment to Climate Action and Sustainable Development
The joint statement emphasized the need for collective efforts to address climate change, focusing on resilience and disaster risk reduction. The Philippines pledged full support for Mongolia’s hosting of the 17th Session of the Conference of the Parties (COP17) of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification in 2026.
Mongolia expressed sincere gratitude for the Philippines’ backing of their bid to host this significant climate event. Both countries recognize the pressing challenges posed by climate degradation, depopulation, and the broader impacts of climate change on their region and beyond.
Looking Ahead
The meeting concluded on a note of genuine friendship and mutual respect. Mongolia reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening ties and achieving meaningful outcomes for their peoples. The Philippine Foreign Secretary expressed confidence in the continued growth of bilateral relations, building on the momentum established since their first meeting in 2018.
For more news and updates on Philippines Mongolia cooperation, visit Filipinokami.com.