MANILA – The Philippines and Singapore signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Defense Cooperation on Wednesday, coinciding with the 55th Anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
In a press statement released by the Ministry of Defense of Singapore, it announced that the signing of the MOU will serve as “the framework to guide existing interactions and promote cooperation in areas of mutual interests such as military education and anti-terrorism” as well as foster and promote closer people-to-people links.
The Agreement was signed by Singapore Minister for Defense Dr Ng Eng Hen and Philippine Secretary of National Defense Gilberto Teodoro Jr., followed by a meeting between the two officials.
“During Secretary Teodoro’s meeting with Dr Ng, both sides reaffirmed the warm and friendly bilateral defense ties between Singapore and the Philippines and expressed commitment to continue cooperation on the ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) and ADMM-Plus fora,” the statement read.
In a press statement released by the Philippine Embassy in Singapore, it confirmed that both Defense Ministers “discussed and exchanged views on important issues of mutual concern,” underscoring the commitment of both countries to work together in ensuring peace and stability in the region.
(Photo courtesy of Ministry of Defense and the Singapore Armed Forces)
The MOU will build on the existing Arrangement Concerning the Conduct of Education Training Assistance and Support Activities on Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) signed in 2023 on the sidelines of the 20th IISS Shangri-La Dialogue, the Philippine Embassy stated.
The MOU aims to enhance both countries’ collaboration in defense policy, military training, and joint exercises. By fostering closer cooperation, both nations sought to promote regional stability and security. It also allows both countries to address common challenges such as terrorism, maritime security, and disaster response, the Philippine Embassy added.
Secretary Teodoro is in Singapore and joined by Philippine Ambassador to Singapore H.E. Medardo G. Macaraig, Department of National Defense (DND) Undersecretary for Strategic Assessment and Planning Ignacio Madriaga, DND Assistant Secretary for Strategic Assessments and International Affairs Marita Yoro, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Gen. Romeo Brawner, Jr., Flag Officer-in-Command of the Philippine Navy Vice Admiral Toribio Adaci, Jr., and Philippine Defense and Arme Forces Attache’ to Singapore Capt. Sherwin Respeto PN (GSC).
Earlier this month, the Philippines signed a Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) with Japan which will enable forces from both countries to undergo training and joint exercises. The Agreement has to be ratified by both countries’ Congress to take effect.
The Philippines is also eyeing similar agreements with Canada, France and New Zealand, while the country has an existing visiting forces agreement with the U.S. and Australia.
