PH named ‘priority partner’ in Canada’s Indo-Pacific defense push

MANILA, Philippines — Canada has identified the Philippines as a “priority partner” under its Indo-Pacific defense strategy, signaling a potential expansion of joint military activities and defense industry cooperation as Manila broadens its network of security allies.

The designation comes as Canada steps up regional engagement under a multibillion-dollar Indo-Pacific strategy aimed at strengthening maritime security, supply chains, and defense ties with like-minded countries.

At a recent strategic dialogue, Canadian defense policy officer Sara Schlemm said Ottawa is adopting a “build-partner-buy” approach, which seeks to develop domestic capability while co-producing systems with partners such as the Philippines.

READ: Safeguarding a free and open Indo-Pacific

The shift reflects a broader move by Canada to reduce reliance on external suppliers and embed its defense industry within allied networks.

For the Philippines, the partnership adds to a growing list of security arrangements with like-minded nations as it confronts challenges in the West Philippine Sea and ramps up military modernization.

Manila has expanded defense cooperation in recent years with the United States, Japan, and Australia.

READ: PH maritime security gets boost from France, India, Australia

Schlemm said maritime domain awareness would be a central area of cooperation, including the development of sensors, artificial intelligence, and autonomous systems to monitor coastal and offshore activity.

Manila and Ottawa signed a Visiting Forces Agreement in November 2025, which is expected to facilitate joint exercises and interoperability once it enters into force. 

Schlemm said the agreement would also help identify capability gaps and support future codevelopment projects.

READ: PH, Canada sign visiting forces agreement

Beyond maritime security, Philippine officials said both countries are exploring cooperation in cybersecurity and digital infrastructure. 

Department of Information and Communications Technology Undersecretary Sarah Sison said the Philippines is seeking Canadian expertise to improve data center standards and secure digital supply chains, while Trade Undersecretary Ceferino Rodolfo emphasized partnerships between Philippine and Canadian universities in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.

Stratbase Institute President Victor Andres “Dindo” Manhit said the strategic engagements with Canada are key to the Philippines’ long-term stability.

“Economic security is national security,” Manhit said. “As a geostrategic nation in the heart of the Indo-Pacific, we must build resilience through cooperation with like-minded partners.”

He added that aligning interests with Canada would help protect vital sea lanes and digital infrastructure while attracting investment and creating jobs to support the Philippines’ growth as a rising middle power. /dl