The Department of National Defense (DND) announced Friday that the Philippines and Canada have successfully concluded negotiations for the proposed Status of Visiting Forces Agreement (SOVFA).

DND spokesperson and Assistant Secretary Arsenio Andolong said the agreement aims to enhance defense cooperation, improve military interoperability, and facilitate joint exercises and capacity-building efforts between the two nations.

The Philippine delegation was led by Defense Undersecretary Angelito De Leon, while Department of National Defence Assistant Deputy Minister Scott Millar headed the Canadian side. Negotiations officially began on January 16, 2025, supplemented by virtual meetings and inter-agency consultations to ensure alignment with both countries’ mutual interests.

Key members of the Philippine negotiation panel included Presidential Commission on Visiting Forces Undersecretary Antonio Habulan Jr., DND Assistant Secretaries Marita Yoro and Erik Lawrence Dy, DFA Assistant Secretaries Jose Victor Chan-Gonzaga and Patrick Chuasoto, DOJ Undersecretary Raul Vasquez, and Chief State Counsel Dennis Arvin Chan. The Canadian delegation comprised officials from the Department of National Defence and Global Affairs Canada.

Following the 75th anniversary of Philippines-Canada diplomatic relations in 2024, both nations reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties through the SOVFA.

“This development highlights the Philippines’ commitment to bolstering international partnerships and promoting regional security, ensuring the security and economic prosperity of both countries,” Andolong said.

The SOVFA is expected to contribute to peace, stability, and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region, with the DND reaffirming its commitment to working closely with international partners to safeguard national interests and enhance security efforts.