The Philippines and Canada signed a letter of understanding (LOU) on bilateral development assistance, the Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DEPDev) said Monday.
Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DEPDev) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan and Canadian Secretary of State for International Development Randeep Sarai agreed to the framework during a high-level meeting on Nov. 12. The Department of Finance will serve as a co-signatory for the Philippine government.
The LOU outlines the collaboration framework, guiding future programs focused on long-term sustainability, resilience and inclusive growth.
The agreement is aligned with national priorities, as laid out in the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028.
Canada ranks 14th among the country’s top bilateral development partners as of September 2025, providing support across key sectors including health, climate adaptation and governance.
Since June 2025, the two countries have also co-chaired the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development Southeast Asia Regional Program for 2025–2028.
“This letter of understanding is aligned with the priorities and strategies we have laid out in the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028. It is a direct response to our shared aspiration for an economic and social transformation that is truly inclusive, resilient and sustainable,” Balisacan said.
He said Canada’s development cooperation, channeled through the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade, and Development, will be “invaluable as we focus on critical sectors aimed at achieving long-term sustainability and inclusive growth for all Filipinos.”
Sarai reiterated Canada’s role as a key partner. “Canada stands alongside the Filipino people as partners in building a more resilient, inclusive and sustainable future. We are committed in our partnership to strengthening disaster preparedness and unlocking economic opportunities that benefit both our countries,” he said.
