President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to deepen and strengthen cooperation with Canada, particularly in the areas of trade, defense, and the promotion of regional peace and stability.
The President made the statement in a Saturday news release following a phone conversation with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Thursday evening.
“Had a very good conversation with Prime Minister Mark Carney of Canada,” President Marcos said in a Facebook post.
“We discussed how our two nations can further strengthen and deepen cooperation in trade, defense, and maintaining peace in our region,” he added.
During the call, the two leaders also discussed the tragic Lapu-Lapu Day incident in Vancouver, where at least 11 people were killed.
President Marcos expressed his appreciation for Canada’s swift response to support the Filipino community affected by the incident.
“I also conveyed our gratitude for Canada’s swift assistance to the Filipino community in Vancouver following the tragic incident at the Lapu-Lapu Day Festival,” the President said.
The President also expressed his appreciation for the Prime Minister’s assurance that Canada will support accelerating progress in the negotiations on the ASEAN-Canada Free Trade Agreement (ACAFTA), and its support for the Philippines’ upcoming ASEAN Chairship in 2026.
President Marcos underscored his administration’s commitment to building on the longstanding partnership between the Philippines and Canada for the mutual benefit of both nations.
“We look forward to building on this partnership for the benefit of our peoples,” the President said.
