Philippines Works to Build Closer Defence Ties to Canada as It Squares Off With China

Minister of National Defence David McGuinty (L), and Philippine Secretary of National Defence Gilberto C. Teodoro participate in a joint news conference after a signing ceremony at National Defence headquarters in Ottawa on June 11, 2026. The Canadian Press/Justin TangThe Philippines is forging closer defence ties with Canada as both countries attempt to limit Beijing’s territorial claims in the South China Sea and confront concerns about supply chains and disinformation.“The bilateral relationship between the Philippines and Canada has entered a new phase, a new era, and I’m very, very optimistic,” said Philippine Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr.