The United Kingdom (UK) is exploring a possible defense agreement with the Philippines to boost cooperation between the two nations’ armed forces.
The Department of National Defense said UK Minister of State for Defense Lord Vernon Coaker conveyed the proposal during a meeting with Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. at Camp Aguinaldo. Coaker handed Teodoro a letter from UK Defence Secretary John Healey, expressing interest in a Status of Visiting Forces Agreement (SOVFA).
Teodoro welcomed the initiative, saying it reflected Europe’s growing engagement in the Indo-Pacific. Both sides agreed to begin internal processes leading to formal negotiations to enhance collaboration and interoperability.
They also discussed regional security, military education exchanges, and defense industry ties. Coaker’s visit coincided with the port call of the UK Royal Navy’s HMS Richmond as part of Operation Highmast. Rex Espiritu
