The Department of National Defense (DND) said the renewed defense cooperation agreement between the Philippines and Italy is expected to strengthen maritime security in the Indo-Pacific and deepen military ties between the two countries.
The updated Agreement on Cooperation in the Field of Defense was signed on Feb. 14 on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference in Germany. Theresa Lazaro signed on behalf of the Philippines, while Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto represented Italy.
“The signing of the renewed Agreement between the Philippines and Italy on Cooperation in the Field of Defense is a concrete step towards strengthening bilateral defense relations and advancing practical cooperation,” the DND said in a statement on Feb. 16.
It added that the agreement supports sustained defense capability development and closer operational coordination between the two nations.
“Our efforts reflect a shared commitment to long-term capability development and greater interoperability, anchored on mutual respect and strategic trust,” the DND noted.
The department also highlighted Italy’s increasing involvement in Indo-Pacific security affairs.
“The Department values our European partner’s expanding engagement in the Indo-Pacific, and looks forward to sustained cooperation that strengthens maritime security, promotes global stability, and advances mutual interests,” it said.
Italy has expanded its defense footprint in the region in recent years, aligning with broader European efforts to support a free, open and rules-based maritime order. Rome has consistently expressed support for the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea as the framework for managing maritime disputes, including in the West Philippine Sea.
Italian defense firms have also explored industrial cooperation with the Philippine Navy (PN).
Shipbuilder Fincantieri partnered with Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems to offer submarine solutions under the third horizon of the Armed Forces modernization program, aimed at strengthening undersea capabilities and enhancing maritime deterrence and domain awareness.
Discussions have likewise included potential shipbuilding cooperation between the Philippine Navy and the Italian Navy to bolster technical expertise and modernization efforts.