France Strengthens Military Ties with the Philippines Amid Regional Tensions

CLARK, Philippines – France has reaffirmed its commitment to uphold freedom of navigation and overflight in the Asia-Pacific region, marking a significant step in its military engagement with the Philippines. The arrival of two French-made Rafale fighter jets at Clark air base, a former U.S. military installation, underscores France's readiness to respond swiftly to humanitarian and security crises in the area. French Ambassador to Manila, Marie Fontanel, announced ongoing efforts to finalize a defense pact that would facilitate increased military cooperation and joint exercises between the two nations. This initiative aligns with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s strategy to enhance national defense capabilities, which includes expanding the U.S. military presence in the Philippines under a 2014 defense agreement. The Philippines is also actively seeking to strengthen security alliances with both Asian and Western countries in response to China's assertive actions in the South China Sea. The recent French air force mission, Pegase, aims to deepen defense relations and showcase military capabilities, although a planned aerial refueling demonstration was cut short due to turbulence. Discussions are underway for a status-of-forces agreement that would legally enable troops from France and the Philippines to conduct joint exercises. France is expected to present an initial draft of this agreement by September. Meanwhile, the Philippines is also exploring similar agreements with Canada and New Zealand, despite China's criticism of these military collaborations, which it claims could destabilize the region. Philippine military officials maintain that these alliances are focused on enhancing national defense rather than targeting any specific nation.