MANILA, Philippines – The Government of Canada, through its Embassy in Manila, reaffirmed its commitment to further strengthen the bilateral defense relationship between the Philippines and Canada, through the conclusion of negotiations for a Status of Visiting Forces Agreement (SOVFA).
“This significant achievement reflects the unwavering commitment of both parties to strengthen bilateral relations. It stands as a strong testament to the trust and confidence in our partnership and its future growth,” the Embassy of Canada said in a statement.
“Canada is deeply appreciative of the Philippines’ support and spirit of collaboration to negotiate this important Agreement,” the Embassy added.
According to the Embassy, the SOVFA will reinforce the Defense Cooperation Memorandum of Understanding signed in January 2024.
Photo courtesy of Department of National Defense (DND)
Canada’s Minister of National Defence Bill Blair earlier remarked that the “successful conclusion of this agreement is a significant milestone for the overall bilateral relationship between the Philippines and Canada, which celebrated 75 years of diplomatic ties in 2024.”
Meanwhile, the Philippines’ Department of National Defense (DND) hailed the conclusion of negotiations as a reaffirmation of both countries’ commitment to strengthen bilateral ties, as well as establish a framework for increased cooperation, foster closer collaboration between defense and military establishments, improve interoperability between forces, and to facilitate more effective joint exercises and capacity-building activities.
“This development underscored the Philippines' commitment to bolstering international partnerships and promoting regional security, thereby ensuring security and economic prosperity of both countries,” the DND said in a statement.
“The Philippines looks forward to the positive impact of the SOVFA, which is expected to contribute to peace, stability, and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. The DND remains committed to working closely with international partners to safeguard national interests and strengthen security efforts in the region,” the DND added.
Canada believes the Agreement will launch a new chapter in the Philippines-Canadian bilateral defence relationship – “one that sees us working much more closely as trusted partners.”
“It will bolster defense and military ties between the two countries, enabling the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Canadian Armed Forces to operate and train together in each other’s territories,” the Embassy mentioned.
“In these turbulent times, Canada stands with friends and partners like the Philippines to uphold peace, stability and respect for international law,” the Embassy added.
The Philippines and Canada earlier signed an arrangement in 2023 for the use of the Dark Vessel Detection system to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing by vessels evading detection by switching off their location.
And recently, the Philippines has broadened its security partnerships with other nations, such as the conclusion of similar negotiations with New Zealand; while maintaining its relationship with treaty ally the United States.
The Philippine also ratified a reciprocal access agreement with Japan, that would allow both militaries to deploy on each other’s territories.
