Canada and the Philippines seal defense pact to deepen ties. The pact comes amid both countries’ growing fretfulness about China’s assertion in the South China Sea, where sovereignty is disputed.
The Philippine Department of National Defense stated that the pact will set out a framework for enhancing cooperation, enhancing interoperability and increased joint exercises, including those in disputed waters of the South China Sea. Although a specific signing date has not been scheduled, officials indicate that it could happen in the new few months.
Canada has been increasingly increasing its military presence in the Indo-Pacific, in sync with the Philippines standing up under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. efforts to cement alliances that are supportive of national security. Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro underscored the significance of global alliances in countering China’s territorial aggression, saying Beijing’s actions pose a “global threat” that can snarl important trade lanes. 
The Philippines currently has visiting forces agreements with the US, Australia and Japan and it is negotiating with New Zealand, France and other countries for greater cooperation with one of the world’s smallest militaries. Canada’s new agreement puts it in good company of major US allies lining up with Manila in its bid for regional stability against China’s expansive maritime claims.
