Defense officials from the Philippines and New Zealand discussed efforts to strengthen military cooperation, including a proposed Status of Visiting Forces Agreement that would provide a framework for deeper defense engagements between the two countries.
Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. met with New Zealand Minister of Defence Christopher Penk on May 29 on the sidelines of the International Institute for Strategic Studies Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore.
The Department of National Defense said the two officials discussed the SOVFA and recognized its importance in institutionalizing military activities and expanding defense cooperation between Manila and Wellington.
The agreement is expected to support more regular and structured military engagements, including joint training, exercises, and other cooperative activities between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the New Zealand Defence Force.
Teodoro and Penk also discussed New Zealand’s participation in major Philippine-led and allied exercises, including Balikatan and Salaknib. Both sides noted that such activities help improve interoperability, operational readiness, and regional cooperation in responding to shared security challenges.
The two defense chiefs also expressed interest in exploring broader areas of cooperation as both countries seek to strengthen partnerships in the Indo-Pacific.
Teodoro emphasized the importance of convergence among like-minded countries, including closer engagement with Pacific Island nations, to promote regional stability, resilience, and a rules-based international order.
The meeting came as the Philippines continues to broaden its defense partnerships with allies and regional partners amid evolving security challenges in the Indo-Pacific.