President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. said the Philippines is open to exploring a visiting forces agreement (VFA) with Germany, as Manila and Berlin step up defense and security cooperation amid rising geopolitical tensions, according to BusinessWorld.
Marcos made the remarks during a meeting with German officials, signaling a potential expansion of military logistics and personnel exchanges. The Philippines currently has VFAs with the United States and Australia, and a similar pact with Germany would mark a significant broadening of its security partnerships in Europe.
Separately, the President expressed strong support for a free trade agreement (FTA) between the Philippines and the European Union, saying it would boost economic ties and create new opportunities for Filipino exporters. The EU is a major trading partner, and an FTA is seen as a way to deepen integration and reduce barriers.