Canada and the Philippines have taken further steps to deepen their defence partnership through the signing of new bilateral agreements aimed at increasing cooperation between their armed forces.
At a recent meeting, Canadian National Defence Minister David J. McGuinty and Philippine National Defense secretary Gilberto Teodoro formalised a Mutual Logistics Support Arrangement and a Statement of Intent on Strengthening Defence Cooperation on 11 June 2026.
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The Mutual Logistics Support Arrangement is intended to facilitate the exchange of logistical support during joint activities such as exercises, training, deployments, and operations.
The deal is “expected to enhance operational readiness and interoperability”, supporting joint work between the two militaries.
The Statement of Intent on Strengthening Defence Cooperation follows the Defence Cooperation Arrangement signed in 2024 and the Status of Visiting Forces Agreement signed in 2025, and is intended to direct the next stage of the countries’ developing defence partnership.
It sets out a joint commitment to further collaboration and offers a roadmap for expanded cooperation between the respective defence departments and armed forces of Canada and the Philippines.
During their discussions, the two parties have also explored opportunities for increased collaboration in areas such as maritime security, joint military exercises, and engagement with the defence industry.
Minister McGuinty said: “These initiatives will strengthen interoperability between our armed forces, facilitate greater collaboration, and reinforce our shared commitment to a secure, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.
“Canada also signalled its interest in deepening defence ties through the signing of a Statement of Intent on defence cooperation. Canada values the Philippines’ vital role in Southeast Asia, and we remain committed to expanding this partnership in support of regional security, stability, and shared prosperity.”
The announcement comes as Canada marks the approaching tenth anniversary of the arbitral ruling on the South China Sea, scheduled for 12 July.
Last month, the Canadian Armed Forces also took part for the first time as an active participant in Exercise BALIKATAN, the annual military exercise held in the Philippines.
