Canada and the Philippines Sign a Status of Visiting Forces Agreement
News release
November 2, 2025 – Manila, Philippines – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces
Today, the Honourable David McGuinty, Minister of National Defence and the Philippine Secretary of National Defense, Gilberto Teodoro, signed a Status of Visiting Forces Agreement (SOVFA) between Canada and the Philippines. This agreement builds on the Canada-Philippines Defence Cooperation Memorandum of Understanding signed in January 2024.
The SOVFA marks a new chapter in Canada-Philippines defence cooperation, enabling greater engagement, cooperation, and collaboration between both nations. It will allow the Canadian Armed Forces and the Armed Forces of the Philippines to work more closely together through participation in joint and multinational operations and exercises in each other’s territories.
The Philippines is one of Canada’s most important defence partners in the Indo-Pacific region. As a democratic nation, it plays a key role in promoting peace and stability in Southeast Asia and upholding respect for international law. Canada recognizes the Philippines’ influential position in the region as we strengthen defence and security cooperation with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and its members. Continuing to work closely with partners like the Philippines demonstrates Canada’s long-term commitment to support peace, security and stability in the Indo-Pacific.
The Indo-Pacific region is at the epicentre of a generational global shift. Every issue that matters to Canadians – national security, economic prosperity, democratic values, public health, the environment, and human rights – will be shaped by developments in this region and by the relationships Canada builds with its Indo-Pacific partners. As a Pacific nation, Canada’s security and prosperity are closely linked to the stability of the broader Indo-Pacific region. Canada is, and will continue to be, an active, engaged and reliable partner in promoting regional peace and stability.
Quotes
“Finalizing the Status of Visiting Forces Agreement with the Philippines’ Department of National Defence marks a significant milestone in the enduring partnership between our two nations, built on more than 75 years of diplomatic ties. Canada values the Philippines’ vital role in Southeast Asia and remains committed to deepening our defence and security cooperation for regional stability and shared prosperity.”
The Honourable David McGuinty, Minister of National Defence
Quick facts
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This is Minister McGuinty’s first trip to the Philippines since he was appointed Minister of National Defence.
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Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy commits to strengthening and diversifying partnership across the region. This new agreement will deepen defence relationships by enabling Canada to work alongside Allies and partners in cooperation with the Philippines.
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In January 2024, the Department of National Defence and the Philippines’ Department of National Defense signed a Defence Cooperation Memorandum of Understanding, enabling cooperation in military education, training, capacity building, UN peacekeeping, and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief.
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The Philippines has been a member of Canada’s Military Training and Cooperation Program since 1998, with over 400 military and defence personnel trained through the program.
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Canada also cooperates with the Philippines as an ASEAN Strategic Partner and through the ASEAN Regional Forum. The Philippines has signalled its support for Canada’s increased engagement with ASEAN and its related bodies.
Associated links
Contacts
Alice Hansen
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of National Defence
Email: Alice.Hansen2@forces.gc.ca
Media Relations
Department of National Defence
Phone: 613-904-3333
Email: mlo-blm@forces.gc.ca