Manila: The Philippines on Wednesday welcomed the United Kingdom’s (UK) intention to forge a Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) with Manila, calling it a clear show of support for the country’s position in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. confirmed London’s offer in a letter from the British defense minister, which he described as ‘a very welcome development.’

According to Philippines News Agency, Teodoro stated that the UK would be the second European country to negotiate a Status of Visiting Forces Agreement (SOVFA) with the Philippines, following France, which initiated talks on a similar pact earlier this year. The SOVFA is seen as a strong endorsement of the Philippines’ rights in the WPS, particularly in light of the 2016 arbitral ruling that upheld the Philippines’ claims and invalidated China’s expansive assertions in the South China Sea.

Teodoro emphasized that the SOVFA reflects the UK’s commitment to international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the arbitral award. The next step in the process involves seeking authorization from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to commence negotiations.

The UK has also shown interest in participating in multilateral maritime exercises in the region, which could provide valuable insights and operational knowledge for the Philippines. Teodoro highlighted the potential benefits of learning from the UK’s maritime operations.

A SOVFA establishes the legal framework for the presence of foreign troops in the Philippines during joint exercises, training, or other activities, addressing matters such as entry and exit, jurisdiction over visiting forces, taxation, and criminal liability. The Philippines already has a longstanding VFA with the United States and similar agreements with Australia and Japan, with ongoing negotiations with New Zealand and Canada.