France–Philippines VFA could be finalized this year - Teodoro

Metro Manila, Philippines - A Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) between the Philippines and France is likely to be signed before the end of the year, according to Defense Secretary Gilberto “Gibo” Teodoro Jr., following the successful conclusion of the first round of negotiations held in Paris last June.

Teodoro confirmed in an interview during the French National Day in Makati on Monday that negotiations are progressing well and the next round of talks will take place in the Philippines.

“Ang masasabi ko lang, maganda ang resulta ng first round. Sanay naman na ang team natin mag-negotiate ng VFA, so sana naman sa lalong madaling panahon,” said Teodoro.

[Translation: All I can say is the result of the first round was positive. Our team is well-versed in negotiating VFAs, so hopefully it can move forward as soon as possible.]

When asked whether the VFA with France could be finalized in 2025, Teodoro said the outlook is promising:

“Siguro may chance. ‘Di naman malayo. ‘Yung mga meeting kasi formalizes what is agreed upon and [makes] final adjustments. So, ‘yung second round dito na gagawin.”

[Translation: There’s a chance, not unlikely. These meetings mostly serve to formalize what’s already been agreed on and to make final adjustments. The second round will be held here.]

Teodoro also confirmed that a similar agreement with Canada is on track to be signed this year.

During the Bastille Day celebration in Manila, French Ambassador Marie Fontanel highlighted the growing momentum in defense cooperation between France and the Philippines, citing the recent historic port visit of the French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle and the VFA talks.

“The first round of negotiations for the signature of a Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) between France and the Philippines just took place a few weeks ago last June in Paris, and which I hope will soon come to a successful conclusion,” she said during her speech at the event.

Ambassador Fontanel emphasized that defense and security cooperation between the two countries is more important than ever given growing global instability. She pointed out that both nations are maritime democracies committed to a free and open Indo-Pacific and upholding international maritime law.

“France and the Philippines have so much in common, and much more to do together. Our countries are like two ‘blue sister nations.’ So long live our friendship and our cooperation,” she said, ending her speech with a toast to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the Filipino people, and Franco-Philippine friendship.