Philippine-German Security Cooperation: Marcos Jr. Does Not Rule Out Troop Access Agreement

(CNA reporter Lin Xingjian, Manila, June 16) Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. met today with visiting German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier at Malacañang Palace to discuss bilateral defense cooperation, labor collaboration, and investment. The Philippine side indicated it does not rule out signing a 'Troop Access Agreement' with Germany in the future.

Steinmeier arrived in Manila last night, beginning a three-day state visit. He visited the presidential Malacañang Palace today to hold bilateral talks with President Marcos Jr.

Following the meeting, the two leaders held a joint press conference. President Marcos stated that amid increasingly volatile geopolitical conditions, the Philippines is actively expanding its network of security partners and does not rule out entering into arrangements similar to a Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) with Germany.

Germany is enhancing its engagement in the Indo-Pacific region. The Philippines and Germany completed the ratification process for a 'Defense Cooperation Agreement' in 2025. Germany has expressed interest in further negotiating a 'Visiting Forces Agreement' (VFA) with the Philippines to deepen military cooperation.

When asked whether a VFA between the two countries is possible, President Marcos replied that while there may still be 'some distance' to formally signing such an agreement, both nations are continuously increasing military, defense, and security engagements.

Marcos emphasized the Philippines' openness to a VFA with Germany, stating, 'Given the current instability in the geopolitical landscape, the best way to achieve stability is through partnerships and building a broad alliance base.'

On the recent announcement by the United States and Iran of a ceasefire and plans to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, Steinmeier said, 'Every step toward ending hostilities is the right step.'

Steinmeier stressed the urgency of restoring navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, noting that the conflict has already impacted global food prices, fertilizer supplies, and future agricultural yields, affecting the livelihoods of hundreds of thousands.

President Marcos added that while the Philippines and Germany are affected differently by the conflict, both nations feel the economic pressures of global crises. Reopening free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz would help stabilize global energy markets and alleviate inflationary pressures caused by the oil crisis.

In addition to security cooperation, both sides discussed the employment of Filipino skilled workers in Germany.

Steinmeier highlighted Germany's favorable working conditions and social stability, noting that approximately 40,000 to 45,000 Filipinos currently live and work in Germany. He said they serve as the best ambassadors for attracting more Filipino talent, meaning Germany no longer needs extensive promotional campaigns. (Edited by Chen Cheng-gong) 1150616