Manila, March 8 -- The Philippines can expect closer defense cooperation with Canada once the Status of Visiting Forces Agreement (SOVFA) enters into force, the Canadian Embassy in Manila said Saturday.

The negotiations for a Canada-Philippines SOVFA, an agreement that will allow the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Canadian Armed Forces to operate and train together in each other's territories, have recently successfully concluded.

In a statement, the Canadian Embassy said this milestone reflects the "unwavering commitment of both parties to strengthen bilateral relations."

"This agreement will launch a new chapter in the Philippines-Canadian bilateral defense relationship - one that sees us working much more closely as t...