The Philippines and Australia recently signed a statement of intent to pursue a Defense Cooperation Agreement aimed at strengthening security relations. Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Richard Marles said the agreement is expected to be finalized and signed in 2026 after the 2nd Philippine-Australia Defense Ministers Meeting in Makati City.
Marles explained that the new framework will build on the 1995 Memorandum of Understanding between the two countries. It will include annual defense ministers meetings, closer coordination of military exercises, and broader cooperation in operations. He added that Australia and the Philippines have also agreed to develop a defense infrastructure plan. At present, Australia is undertaking eight infrastructure projects in five locations across the Philippines.
Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. described the planned agreement as a concrete step in formalizing the defense partnership. He noted that its signing next year will coincide with the Philippines’ role as host of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Summit. Teodoro also expressed appreciation for Australia’s support of the Philippines’ maritime rights under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
Both officials highlighted the importance of regional cooperation in the Indo-Pacific amid rising security challenges. Marles reiterated that the United States remains a reliable partner, while Teodoro said the Philippines continues to maintain strong defense ties with Washington.
During his visit, Marles is also scheduled to observe Exercise Alon 25, the Philippines’ largest international military exercise, involving forces from Australia, the United States, Canada, and the Philippines.
(Source: Philippines News Agency)
