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May 29, 2025

Strengthening Global Defense Ties: The Philippines Expands Security Partnerships

Closing ceremony of Exercise Balikatan 40-2025
Closing ceremony of Exercise Balikatan 40-2025 on May 9 — https://www.afp.mil.ph/news/ph-us-conclude-first-full-battle-test-of-balikatan-signaling-in-new-chapter-of-defense-cooperation
May 29, 2025

Building on the success of Balikatan 2025 and the reaffirmed U.S. defense commitment, the Philippines has strengthened global partnerships, expanded strategic collaborations and reinforced its role in regional security. As part of this effort, it signed a Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) with New Zealand to enhance defense cooperation, while a potential VFA with South Korea remains under consideration. Additionally, the Philippines and Germanymarked a milestone in defense cooperation by signing a new agreement following the 70th anniversary of their diplomatic relations.  

These developments create both opportunities and competition for U.S. defense firms, expanding engagement with Filipino security partners while also highlighting the presence of German and South Korean firms in the country’s military modernization efforts. To remain competitive, U.S. defense firms must align their offerings with Philippine defense priorities, ensuring relevance in interoperability initiatives, procurement decisions, and long-term maintenance. 

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