The Department of National Defense and other relevant agencies involved in finalizing the Visiting Forces Agreement between the Philippines and Canada must protect the country’s national interest, Senator Win Gatchalian stressed, as he recognized the importance of establishing a VFA with allied countries.

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

He pointed out that the VFA also 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. 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,” the senator said.

On Tuesday, the Philippines said that talks on the status of the VFA with Canada were ongoing.

Gatchalian believes the VFA, which will serve as a “key defense agreement” between the Philippines and Canada, “is an important confidence-building step that will strengthen our defense cooperation.”

“I remain committed to supporting initiatives that safeguard our national sovereignty and protect the welfare of the Filipino people,” he said.

The discussion on the VFA came following the conclusion of the memorandum of understanding on Defense Cooperation between the Philippines and Canada on 19 January 2024.