PH, EU launch security, defense dialogue as regional tensions simmer

Metro Manila, Philippines - The Philippines and the European Union have agreed to establish a new Security and Defense Dialogue, a move both sides said reflects deepening strategic ties and growing concern over security threats in the Indo-Pacific region.

The agreement was announced following a bilateral meeting in Manila on Monday, June 2, between Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo and European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas, who is in the country for an official visit.

“Today, our relationship reaches another significant milestone with our decision to create a security and defense dialogue. This dialogue will provide a mechanism for the Philippines and the EU to discuss security and defense-related issues with both depth and regularity,” said Manalo.

While no specific timeline has been set for the beginning of the dialogue, it will serve as a dedicated platform for cooperation on a wide range of security concerns, including maritime security, cybersecurity, counterterrorism, foreign information manipulation, and crisis response.

Kallas said the initiative comes at a critical time.

“The European Union's relationship with the Philippines is already on a positive trajectory. Today, we take it to another level. We share a commitment to upholding the rules-based international order, promoting peace and stability, and addressing common challenges together,” she said.

She cited growing instability in the South China Sea and Russia’s aggression in Ukraine as key reasons for reinforcing security cooperation.

“This new EU-Philippines security and defense dialogue allows us to deepen our partnership and explore joint initiatives that contribute not just to regional, but global security,” Kallas said.

Manalo said discussions are ongoing on the framework and operational details of the dialogue.

“Paguusapan pa yung mga framework [We have yet to discuss the framework],” he said in an ambush interview. “But we have a more focused discussion now on security and dialogue cooperation between the Philippines and EU.”

The launch of the dialogue comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific, including increased militarization in the South China Sea and growing concerns over cyber threats and foreign interference.

Kallas said the EU’s engagement in the region is rooted in shared values.

“Our work will be comprehensive,” she said.