MANILA, Philippines – A visiting forces deal between Canada and the Philippines is expected to be signed within the year, the Canadian Embassy said in a statement.
“The Philippines and Canada are shooting to conclude the negotiations for a visiting forces agreement within 2025,” the Embassy mentioned.
The Embassy said “final steps are now being taken to complete a Status of Visiting Forces Agreement (SoVFA)” between the two countries with “ratification expected before the end of 2025.”
“I am especially happy to announce that we are in the final stages of negotiating a Status of Visiting Forces Agreement that will enable us to have even more substantive participation in joint and multilateral training, exercises, and operations with our Philippine allies,” Canadian Ambassador David Hartman said in his remarks during a reception after HMCS Ottawa’s port call in Manila last February 7.
“We committed to upholding the rules-based international order. We have been vocal in confronting the provocative and unlawful actions of the People’s Republic of China in the South China Sea and the West Philippine Sea. And we will continue to do so,” Hartman stated.
The upcoming signing comes amid the deepening defense relationship of Ottawa and Manila.
Over the past year, defense engagements and training opportunities have increased between the two states, resulting from the Memorandum of Understanding on Defence Cooperation Memorandum signed in January 2024.
Meanwhile, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) also announced on Wednesday (Feb. 12) the commencement of the 7th Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCCA), uniting the combined armed and defense forces of the Philippines, Canada and the United States, within the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
READ | The Philippines, Canada, and the United States will unite for the 7th Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity on February 12, within the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zone. This underscores our collective commitment to safeguarding the right to freedom of navigation,… pic.twitter.com/EZBaewk13r
— Armed Forces of the Philippines (@TeamAFP) February 12, 2025
According to a statement by Gen. Romeo S. Brawner, Chief of Staff of the AFP, “the naval and air force units of participating nations will operate together to enhance cooperation and interoperability among the armed forces.
“The activity will be conducted in a manner consistent with international law and with due regard for safety of navigation, and the rights and interests of other States,” Brawner added.
The Royal Canadian Navy’s (RCN) HMCS Ottawa will be participating in the MMCA, Hartman confirmed.
“At every opportunity we have worked with the Philippines Navy and partners to undertake Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activities. To that end, this vessel will be participating in the 7th MMCA within the Philippines Exclusive Economic Zone as it departs Manila next week,” Hartman said.
