EU-Philippines: Second Security and Defence Dialogue takes place in Manila

On 8 October, the European Union and the Philippines held their second Security and Defence Dialogue in Manila.

During the Dialogue, the EU and the Philippines reaffirmed their shared commitment to enhancing alignment on multilateral fora to uphold the rules-based international order. They engaged in substantive discussions on regional security dynamics, with a particular focus on maritime security, including critical maritime infrastructure and freedom of navigation, emphasising the importance of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

The Security and Defence Dialogue, along with the EU's recent announcement of its first-ever European Peace Facility (EPF) assistance measure in Asia – worth a €15 million package for the Philippines -, demonstrates the EU's strong commitment to promoting stability and security in the region.

The Dialogue was co-chaired by Benedikta von Seherr-Thoss, Managing Director for Peace, Security and Defence, European External Action Service, and Leo Herrera-Lim, Undersecretary (USEC) for Policy at the Philippines Department of Foreign Affairs.