Canada and the Philippines have signed a Status of Visiting Forces Agreement, or SOVFA, setting the framework for closer military collaboration between the two countries. SOVFA will facilitate joint exercises, training and participation in multinational operations in each other’s territories, according to a Canadian government announcement released Sunday.
SOVFA builds on the two countries’ Defence Cooperation Memorandum of Understanding signed in January 2024. The new agreement underscores the shared commitment to strengthening defense and security ties amid evolving challenges in the Indo-Pacific region, Ottawa said.
Long Canadian-Philippine Ties as SOVFA Foundation
David McGuinty, Canada’s minister of national defense, who signed the agreement with his counterpart Gilbert Teodoro, the Philippines’ defense secretary, described the SOVFA signing as “a significant milestone” in the two countries’ “enduring partnership” founded on over 75 years of diplomatic relations. “Canada values the Philippines’ vital role in Southeast Asia and remains committed to deepening our defense and security cooperation for regional stability and shared prosperity,” remarked McGuinty, who was visiting Manila for the first time since he assumed office.
The Philippines has participated in Canada’s Military Training and Cooperation Program since 1998, with more than 400 personnel trained. Canada and the Philippines also work together through the ASEAN Regional Forum and as part of Canada’s growing strategic partnership with the Southeast Asian regional alliance.
David Hartman, Canada’s ambassador to the Philippines, announced in January that Ottawa was in the final stages of negotiating a defense cooperation agreement with Manila to expand opportunities to hold military exercises and other defense-related collaborations.