Strengthening Alliances: Philippines’ Sovfa with New Zealand

Weekend Diplomacy in the West Philippine Sea

Manila, Philippines — As diplomatic efforts intensify, the Philippines is on the verge of finalizing a visiting forces agreement (Sovfa) with New Zealand within this year. This move is aimed at strengthening defense partnerships in light of escalating tensions with China in the South China Sea. Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. indicated that negotiations could conclude by the first semester of 2025.

During the Waitangi Day reception in Makati City, Teodoro underscored the significance of the agreement as a step towards solidifying alliances that counteract China’s unilateral actions in the region. China has claimed vast areas of the South China Sea and has been involved in aggressive actions, despite a 2016 international arbitration ruling that invalidated these claims.

Negotiations for the Sovfa officially commenced on January 23, 2025, led by officials from both nations. The Philippines has also been progressing on similar agreements with the United States, Japan, Canada, and France, while a deal with Japan is pending parliamentary approval.

In addition to the pact with New Zealand, Canada is nearing the completion of its own visiting forces agreement with the Philippines, as expressed by the Canadian Ambassador to the Philippines, David Hartman. This agreement hopes to enhance military cooperation, allowing Canadian troops to participate in large-scale joint exercises with the US and Philippine forces. Recent talks between Canadian officials and their Philippine counterparts signify ongoing engagement in defense collaboration.

The National Maritime Council (NMC) reinforced its support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s commitment to uphold Philippine sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea. They emphasized readiness to resist foreign intrusion and maintain territorial integrity in compliance with international law.

President Marcos has reiterated the Philippines’ unwavering presence in the WPS, despite China’s ongoing aggressive actions, including incidents involving the “monster ship,” a massive Chinese vessel actively monitored by the Philippine Coast Guard.

Furthermore, a recent joint statement from US President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba condemned China’s provocative activities in the region, expressing a unified stance against its unlawful maritime claims and militarization of reclaimed areas.

This collective response from allied nations reflects significant concerns regarding China’s assertions and emphasizes the commitment to uphold peace, stability, and international maritime laws in the face of rising tensions in the South China Sea.

(Information summarized from Inquirer.net on February 10, 2025, at 0700 AM)