The Philippine government’s efforts to finalize a visiting forces agreement with France are progressing positively following a productive two-day second round of negotiations, the Department of National Defense (DND) reported.
The proposed Philippines–France Status of Visiting Forces Agreement (SOVFA) aims to strengthen bilateral defense cooperation by providing a clear legal framework for the presence and activities of visiting forces.
Both delegations described the talks as constructive, emphasizing shared goals of enhancing interoperability, safeguarding maritime security, and promoting regional peace and stability.
Discussions also included planned joint exercises such as MARARA 2026, Balikatan 2026, and SAMASAMA 2026, highlighting long-term defense collaboration.
The negotiations further covered broader Indo-Pacific security developments, including the West Philippine Sea, Pacific Island clusters, and critical regional infrastructure.
Source: PhilNews24 | December 12, 2025
VISITING FORCES AGREEMENT TALKS BETWEEN PH AND FRANCE MOVE FORWARD
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