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
Latest from News
More than 9.12 million metric tons of silt, waste, and debris have been removed from major
The Philippines and Singapore signed a landmark implementation agreement on carbon credits under the Paris Agreement,
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. led the inauguration of the P1.21-billion Hibulangan Reservoir Irrigation Project in Leyte,
The Atin Ito civil society coalition is set to carry out its fourth civilian-led mission to
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and former Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio reaffirmed the Philippines and Japan’s