PH, UK SIGN DEFENSE PACT

THE Philippines and the United Kingdom signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that outlines the two states’ intended defense engagements in the next five years.

The agreement, with maritime domain expected to be among the priorities, was signed on January 11 between the Department of National Defense (DND) and the UK Ministry of Defense (MOD).

Philippine Ambassador Teodoro Locsin Jr. signed for the Philippine side while The Earl of Minto Timothy Minto, Minister of State for Defence, signed for the UK side.

“The UK-Philippines MOU on Defense Cooperation is the cornerstone of our defense relationship,” the UK Embassy in Manila said in an email on Tuesday.

“It outlines the intent of our defense engagement for the next five years across a range of areas, including military exercises, training and modernisation efforts,” the UK Embassy said.

“We can expect this engagement to focus on the maritime domain, Exclusive Economic Zone, hydrography and UK participation in future military exercises,” it added.

The Department of Foreign Affairs said the MOU also seeks to provide a framework for enhancing bilateral cooperation on defense and military education, peacekeeping operations, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, and research and technology.