Army hails outgoing, incoming UK attachés as key defense allies

The Philippine Army on Friday touted its strong defense partnership with the United Kingdom (UK) Defense Attachés as one of the key contributors to ongoing military modernization efforts and the strategic shift toward strengthened external defense capabilities.

This, as Outgoing UK Defense Attaché (DA) Group Captain Beatrix VH Walcot, together with her successor Captain Anthony Julian Stockbridge, paid a joint courtesy call on Philippine Army (PA) Commanding General Lieutenant General Antonio G. Nafarrete at the Headquarters Philippine Army in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. 

Grp. Capt. Walcot, who served a two-year tour as the UK’s first resident Defense Attaché in the Philippines, expressed her gratitude to the Philippine Army for its support throughout her tenure. 

In response, Lt. Gen. Nafarrete lauded Walcot’s contributions in strengthening bilateral military ties, particularly in land-based defense cooperation, training, and education.

Army spokesperson Col. Louie Dema-ala said the visit also served as an opportunity to formally introduce Capt. Stockbridge as the new UK Defense Attaché to the Philippines, continuing the momentum of defense diplomacy between the two countries.

The Philippines and the UK have maintained strong defense relations, formalized through Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) signed in 2017 and 2024. 

These agreements emphasize collaboration in key areas such as military training, maritime security, and counterterrorism.

In a show of commitment to regional security, the UK Royal Navy has previously supported freedom of navigation operations and regional stability, particularly in the context of rising tensions in the West Philippine Sea.

Dema-ala stressed that the continued exchange of defense attachés underscores the enduring commitment of both nations to regional peace and security through mutual cooperation and shared strategic interests.