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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Gatchalian: PH-Canada SoVFA will help strengthen Philippines' defense cooperation

Gatchalian: PH-Canada SoVFA will help strengthen Philippines' defense cooperation

Published Feb 12, 2025 05:38 am

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian on Tuesday, February 12 welcomed the key defense agreement now being formed between the Philippines and Canada.


 

Gatchalian made the remark after the Canadian Embassy in Manila confirmed that both governments are now in the final stages of negotiations for the Status of Visiting Forces of Agreement (SoVFA), a pact that would allow both sides to send troops to each other’s country.


 

The pact was a result of the Defense Cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed in early 2024.


 

“A key defense agreement between the Philippines and Canada is an important confidence-building step that will strengthen our defense cooperation,” Gatchalian said.


 

“This agreement will enable our troops to train alongside Canadian forces, enhance interoperability, and improve our collective ability to address security challenges, including external threats and humanitarian missions,” he pointed out.


 

The senator also said the SoVFA underscores the country's commitment to strengthening ties with like-minded nations that uphold international law, including those covering maritime boundaries.


 

“As we finalize this agreement, transparency and accountability must be ensured,” he said.


 

“The Department of National Defense and other relevant agencies should guarantee that the terms of the VFA align with our national interests and contribute to the continued modernization of our Armed Forces,” he added.

Related Tags

visiting forces agreement (VFA) Sherwin Gatchalian PH-Canada
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