In a meeting with the Philippine Ambassador to Indonesia, Christopher Montero, in Jakarta on Tuesday, Yusril stated that the issue of undocumented persons is a humanitarian matter requiring close cooperation between the two countries.
"We are committed to resolving this issue through administrative approaches and humanitarian reconciliation, particularly in border areas," he remarked.
He emphasized that these efforts are essential to ensuring individuals’ basic rights are fulfilled with dignity.
Yusril also affirmed that he had recently met with the Philippine Consulate General in Manado, North Sulawesi, to discuss a bilateral agreement.
This agreement provides an opportunity for Indonesians in the Philippines and Filipinos in Indonesia to choose their citizenship.
The minister noted that for those—particularly people of Philippine descent living in North Sulawesi—who chose to become Indonesian citizens, various residency documents, such as ID cards and Family Cards (KK), have already been issued.
Similarly, for those who chose to become Philippine citizens, the Philippine government has issued passports, while Indonesian immigration authorities have granted residency permits allowing them to legally remain in Indonesia.
"The same measures are being applied to Indonesians in the Philippines," he added.
He further stated that both nations have agreed to resolve the issues by respecting human rights.
Tuesday's meeting reaffirmed the commitment of both Indonesia and the Philippines to strengthen legal and humanitarian cooperation, grounded in mutual respect for sovereignty, human rights protection, and regional stability and security.
During the meeting, Ambassador Montero expressed hope for stronger ties with Indonesia at the upcoming ASEAN Summit in the Philippines.
He also highlighted the possibility of a bilateral meeting between Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Philippine President Bongbong Marcos.
Translator: Agatha Olivia, Raka Adji
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
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