Canada, Philippines Sign Strategic Pacts on Energy, Resources During Marcos Visit

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. visited Vancouver, Canada, marking the first visit by the country's head of state in over a decade. During the high-level meeting, Canada and the Philippines signed agreements covering energy, natural resources, labor, and tourism.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney welcomed Marcos Jr., emphasizing the significant role of Filipino-Canadians in Canada. He stated that both nations stand to gain from a strategic partnership, particularly in energy security and critical minerals.

An analysis by Vina Nadjibulla, vice-president of the Asia Pacific Foundation, suggests the Marcos visit demonstrates tangible results from Canada's four-year-old Indo-Pacific strategy. She noted that while Carney has traveled abroad, having foreign leaders visit Canada indicates genuine interest, especially as the Philippines collaborates with Ottawa on trade, maritime surveillance, and energy.

Canada is currently in trade deal negotiations with the Philippines and a broader bloc of Southeast Asian nations. Carney expressed hope to conclude these talks before his planned visit to Manila in November.

“

Filipino-Canadians are “at the very heart” of Canada, and both countries can benefit in energy security and critical minerals through a strategic partnership.