In a move reinforcing regional defense cooperation, the Philippines signed a visiting forces agreement with Canada on Sunday, part of a broader push to deter China’s aggression in the South China Sea.
The accord enables Canadian forces to train and take part in joint land exercises with Philippine troops, expanding on their naval collaboration in regional patrols.
Canada’s Defence Minister David McGuinty described the deal as a milestone in bilateral defense relations and a step toward realizing Canada’s Indo-Pacific strategy focused on sustained regional engagement.
He confirmed Ottawa’s intention to join the Balikatan joint exercises in 2026.
The Philippines has also signed similar military cooperation agreements with New Zealand and maintains active accords with the US, Japan, and Australia, while negotiations with France continue.
