PNoy to receive highest honor from Indonesia govt at Bali forum

President Benigno Aquino III is set to receive the highest honor from the Indonesian government at a democracy forum in Bali on Friday.

In his departure speech on Thursday, Aquino said he considers the “Bintang Republik Indonesia Adipurna” (Star of the Republic of Indonesia), which will be awarded to him, as a recognition of his efforts to reform the Philippines.

Aquino, the first Filipino to receive this award, will likewise co-chair the democracy forum with  Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono.

Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said at a separate press briefing that the forum is meant to serve as a venue for "sharing of experiences and best practices that adhere to the principles of mutual respect and understanding."

Joining Aquino in the Bali forum are Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario, Cabinet Secretary Rene Almendras, Presidential Management Staff Secretary Julia Abad, and presidential spokesperson Secretary Edwin Lacierda.

The government has earmarked P7.1 million for President Aquino's attendance in the democracy forum, according to Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa Jr. —Andreo Calonzo/KBK, GMA News