PH, Canada to sign visiting forces agreement on November 2, 2025

The Philippines and Canada are set to sign the Status of Visiting Forces Agreement (SOVFA) on November 2, a defense pact that would allow troops from both nations to train each other's territories.

According to a media advisory by the Department of National Defense (DND) on Wednesday, Canadian Minister of National Defence Dovid McGuinty is scheduled to visit Manila for the signing.

Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and his Canadian counterpart will hold a joint press conference following their bilateral meeting and SOVFA signing event in Makati City.

The 1987 Philippine Constitution prohibits foreign troops from establishing permanent military bases in the country. Through deals like visiting forces agreement, foreign militaries may be allowed to enter the Philippines for activities.

In the past years, the Philippines has expanded maritime and defense security cooperation with other countries amid the tensions with China in the West Philippines Sea. — VDV, GMA Integrated News