PH, UK to begin negotiations for Visiting Forces Agreement

The Philippines and the United Kingdom have agreed to begin formal negotiations for a Status of Visiting Forces Agreement (SOVFA) to enhance defense cooperation.

UK Minister of State for Defence Lord Vernon Coaker conveyed Britain's intent to pursue an SOVFA to Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro.

A VFA between the Philippines and the UK would create a legal framework for British troops to visit the country for joint exercises, territorial patrols, disaster response, and other cooperative activities.

If finalized, it would make the UK the Philippines' second European partner under a SOVFA, following France.

Lord Coaker affirmed the UK's support for upholding international maritime law and ensuring peace and stability in the region, stating, "We stand firmly with you with respect to freedom of navigation."

The initiative aligns with Secretary Teodoro's program to strengthen international defense and security engagements, particularly with nations sharing interests in the South China Sea and West Philippine Sea.

The meeting coincided with the port visit of the HMS Richmond to Manila, part of the UK's Operation Highmast.

Defense Secretary Teodoro expressed confidence that no major hurdles are expected before formal approval from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., with consultations with the Department of Foreign Affairs to take place shortly.