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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider PH, South Korea enhance military ties with new deals on veteran's cooperation, defense procurement

PH, South Korea enhance military ties with new deals on veteran's cooperation, defense procurement

Published Mar 4, 2026 03:00 pm
The Department of National Defense (DND) and its South Korean counterpart formalized two major agreements to honor the legacy of Filipino veterans of the Korean War and boost their military’s modernization, it was announced on Wednesday, March 4.
In a formal ceremony at Malacañang Palace, DND Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and Republic of Korea (ROK) Minister of Patriots and Veterans Affairs Kwon Oh-eul signed the renewal of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Cooperation in the Field of Patriots and Veterans Affairs on the sideline of the state visit of ROK President Lee Jae Myung to Manila on Tuesday, March 3.
Teodoro said the pact will “enhance tribute initiatives for Filipino Korean War veterans” and “promote exchanges among their descendants.”
The pact also aims to “strengthen the administrative capacities of veterans affairs institutions in both countries,” highlighting their shared history and dedication to supporting veterans.
During the Korean War from 1950 to 1953, the Philippine Expeditionary Forces to Korea (PEFTOK) sent around 7,500 Filipino soldiers to South Korea as part of the United Nations forces that fought alongside South Korean and allied troops, earning them recognition for bravery and contributing to key battles such as the Battle of Yultong.
They were among the first Asian contingents to support UN efforts, leaving a lasting legacy honored in veterans’ programs today.
Meanwhile, the DND and ROK’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) signed Amendment Number 2 to the Implementing Arrangement on the procurement of defense materials.
The signing was led by DND Undersecretary for Acquisition and Resource Management Salvador Melchor B. Mison Jr. and ROK Minister of DAPA Lee Yong Cheol.
Teodoro said the amendment provides for support from the ROK in the procurement and maintenance of defense materials, further advancing the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
Manila has been deepening defense procurement ties with Seoul as part of its AFP modernization program. The government previously purchased 12 FA‑50 Block 70 light combat aircraft from Korea Aerospace Industries to boost air defense and pilot training capabilities.
In the naval domain, South Korean shipbuilder HD Hyundai Heavy Industries has been a key partner in building major surface combatants for the Philippine Navy. The delivery of frigates and offshore patrol vessels from South Korea has expanded the navy’s offshore patrol and deterrence roles.
The signing of the two agreements coincided with the 77th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two nations.
PH, New Zealand elevate defense ties
Meanwhile, the DND and its New Zealand counterpart have agreed to advance their defense cooperation to a “comprehensive partnership,” signifying a shift from basic bilateral dialogue to a more integrated strategic alliance.
The push was formalized during the sixth Philippines–New Zealand Bilateral Defense Talks held in Wellington last Feb. 26. New Zealand Secretary of Defence Brook Barrington welcomed the Philippine delegation led by DND Senior Undersecretary Irineo C. Espino.
During the meeting, Espino reaffirmed the DND’s commitment to elevating the bilateral relationship with New Zealand toward a “comprehensive partnership” this year, describing it as a natural progression of growing defense engagement between the two sides.
In defense terms, a comprehensive partnership goes beyond symbolic ties as it broadens cooperation across training, capability development, information sharing, and operational coordination. It also allows more regular joint activities and deeper interoperability between armed forces.
The Royal New Zealand Navy’s HMNZS Aotearoa (A11) is seen alongside two rigid hull inflatable boats (RHIBs), one from A11 and another from BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150), as they conduct a personnel exchange exercise during a Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MMCA) in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) on October 30, 2025. (Photo: Armed Forces of the Philippines)
The Royal New Zealand Navy’s HMNZS Aotearoa (A11) is seen alongside two rigid hull inflatable boats (RHIBs), one from A11 and another from BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150), as they conduct a personnel exchange exercise during a Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MMCA) in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) on October 30, 2025. (Photo: Armed Forces of the Philippines)
The Philippines and New Zealand have steadily expanded defense contacts in recent years which was highlighted by the signing of a Status of Visiting Forces Agreement (SOVFA) on April 30, 2025 to strengthen defense cooperation, maritime security, and interoperability by both nation’s militaries.
“The SOVFA sets the legal framework for the entry and presence of military personnel for exercises and other approved activities. It is expected to increase the tempo of exchanges once fully implemented,” DND spokesperson Asst. Sec. Arsenio Andolong explained.
On the other hand, the DND said that Barrington stressed the strategic weight of the defense cooperation carried by both countries as maritime nations.
“Secretary Barrington highlighted the importance of cooperation in safeguarding extensive maritime zones and supporting a rules‑based regional order,” Anodlong noted.
Espino and Barrington also reviewed progress in capacity-building programs, maritime cooperative activities, and participation in multilateral exercises by the AFP and New Zealand Defence Force.
New Zealand also expressed support for the Philippines’ defense modernization drive, including initiatives under the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept (CADC), which seeks to strengthen the country’s ability to secure its maritime domain and territorial integrity. It places emphasis on naval and air capabilities, domain awareness, and coordination with partners.
The meeting coincided with the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

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