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PH, Canada conclude negotiations for visiting forces agreement

Philippine News Agency

By Priam Nepomuceno
March 7, 2025, 5:31 pm

MANILA -- The Department of National Defense (DND) on Friday announced that the negotiations for the proposed Status of Visiting Forces Agreement (SOVFA) between the Philippines and Canada have successfully concluded.

"This agreement will establish a framework for increased cooperation, fostering closer collaboration between defense and military establishments, improving interoperability between forces, and facilitating more effective joint exercises and capacity-building activities," DND spokesperson and Assistant Secretary Arsenio Andolong said in a statement.

The Philippine delegation, he noted, was headed by Defense Undersecretary Angelito De Leon while the Canadian side was led by Department of National Defence Assistant Deputy Minister Scott Millar.

"These (negotiations) were supplemented by virtual meetings and inter-agency consultations to ensure that the agreement aligns with both nations' mutual interests and priorities," he added.

Formal negotiations started on Jan. 16, 2025.

The Philippine negotiation panel included Presidential Commission on Visiting Forces Undersecretary Antonio Habulan Jr.; DND Assistant Secretaries Marita Yoro and Erik Lawrence Dy; Department of Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretaries Jose Victor Chan-Gonzaga and Patrick Chuasoto and Officer-in-Charge Paulo Saret; Department of Justice Undersecretary Raul Vasquez and Chief State Counsel Dennis Arvin Chan.

The Canadian delegation was composed of representatives from the Department of National Defence and Global Affairs Canada.

Following the 75th anniversary of Philippines-Canada diplomatic relations in 2024, the two nations reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties through the conclusion of the SOVFA.

Andolong said this development highlights Philippines' commitment to bolstering international partnerships and promoting regional security, thereby ensuring security and economic prosperity of both countries.

"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," he said. (PNA)