The Philippines and Canada signed a Status of Visiting Forces Agreement to boost combat drills and expand security alliances against aggression. This marks Canada's first such pact with an Indo-Pacific nation. The agreement was inked by their defense ministers in Makati following a bilateral meeting.
On November 2, 2025, Philippines Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro and Canadian Defense Minister David McGuinty signed the Status of Visiting Forces Agreement (SOVFA) in Makati. Teodoro described it as "a milestone for Canada, and it is an honor for the Philippines to be the first partner of Canada in this endeavor. And together, we will be stronger for the greater good of the Indo-Pacific."
The SOVFA requires Philippine Senate concurrence to take full effect. McGuinty stated, "peace is built on rules, not recklessness and that stability grows from cooperation, not confrontation." He added, "The Philippines has shown true leadership in upholding international law and seeking the peaceful resolution of disputes. And for that, you have Canada’s greatest and deepest respect." He also affirmed Canada's resolute support for Philippine sovereignty and territorial integrity.
This follows Canada's 2022 Pacific Strategy, which bolstered its regional presence on land, sea, and air, and increased participation in multinational exercises, including those with the Philippines. Last year, the two nations signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Defense Cooperation. Recently, on October 30 to 31, forces from Australia, New Zealand, the Philippines, and the United States conducted a Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity in the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone, underscoring a collective commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.