Prime Minister Mark Carney and President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. agreed to elevate bilateral relations to a Strategic Partnership during the latter's official visit to Vancouver on July 2, 2026. The leaders mandated their respective foreign ministers to develop an ambitious plan of action to guide this next phase of cooperation, aiming to ensure long-term momentum in bilateral relations. This elevation underscores the deep ties between the citizens of both nations, supported by a vibrant Filipino Canadian community of approximately one million people.

The leaders highlighted recent milestones, including the signing of a landmark Status of Visiting Forces Agreement (SOVFA) and a Mutual Logistics Support Arrangement (MLSA). They reaffirmed their shared commitment to conclude a meaningful Canada–Philippines Free Trade Agreement within the current year, citing bilateral merchandise trade which reached C$3.4 billion in 2025. Both leaders emphasised that economic security is tied to national security and committed to expanding trade and investment to support supply chain resilience.

Key Areas of Cooperation

The leaders identified several sectors for enhanced collaboration:

• Energy and Resources: Cooperation in clean energy, liquefied natural gas, critical minerals, and nuclear energy, including through the launch of an annual government-to-government energy cooperation dialogue.
• Defence and Security: Strengthening collaboration in maritime security, defence production, and information-sharing through agreements like the SOVFA and MLSA.
• Infrastructure and Investment: Canada welcomed participation in the Luzon Economic Corridor Partnership, including an initial C$2 million contribution for technical assistance.

Prime Minister Carney and President Marcos Jr. discussed deepening regional cooperation through the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The Prime Minister commended the Philippines' leadership as ASEAN Chair in 2026 and looked forward to continued collaboration at upcoming regional summits. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to accelerating negotiations on a Canada-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement as a priority deliverable under the Philippines' ASEAN Chairship.