MANILA, Philippines — Several Australian companies and institutions were urged to look at the Philippines as a trade, investment and tourism destination during a business networking reception hosted by Consul General Anne Jalando-on Louis in Sydney last January 16.

The effort was led by Philippine Team-Australia under Ambassador Belen Anota, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Saturday.

Twenty-seven representatives from the Australian business, finance, business process outsourcing (BPO), infrastructure, information technology (IT), tourism and training and education sectors attended the reception.

In her speech at the event, Anota highlighted the Aquino administration's resolve to set the moral, political and economic foundations for long-term growth and development and the Philippine government's efforts to fight corruption and create a more conducive climate for trade and commerce.

She also cited the advantages of doing business and investing in the Philippines and invited Australian companies to visit the country.

The ambassador welcomed inquiries from the Australian private sector and offered the assistance of the members of Philippine Team-Australia in linking Australian companies with prospective partners from the Philippine government or the private sector.