President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney witnessed the signing of four new agreements on Thursday (Canada time), marking another step in the growing partnership between the Philippines and Canada.
The agreements were signed at the Vancouver Convention Centre following the leaders' bilateral meeting, highlighting both countries' commitment to expanding cooperation in areas that support economic growth, workforce development, and stronger people-to-people ties.
Partnership expands across key sectors
The new agreements cover four priority areas: energy and natural resources, tourism, labor and migration, and culture.
Among the documents signed was a Joint Declaration of Intent on energy and natural resources, aimed at strengthening collaboration on sustainable resource development. The two governments also signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on tourism cooperation to encourage more travel and tourism opportunities between the two countries.
An MOU on cultural cooperation for 2026 to 2031 will promote cultural exchanges and collaboration, while a Joint Declaration of Intent on labor and migration seeks to improve workforce development, facilitate labor mobility, and create a stronger talent pipeline.
Building the next chapter of PH-Canada ties
Marcos said the agreements reflect the close relationship between the Philippines and Canada and will create new opportunities for both countries.
"I am glad to have witnessed today the signing of bilateral understandings and declaration of cooperation in the areas of tourism, culture, and labor and migration," Marcos said.
"These agreements will help us harness our strong people-to-people ties between our two countries as we jointly build capacities and create a mutually beneficial talent pipeline for the future," he added.
The latest agreements signal both countries' intention to broaden cooperation beyond traditional diplomatic ties, paving the way for deeper economic collaboration, expanded cultural exchanges, and sustainable development in the years ahead.
