The European Union and the Philippines have elevated their bilateral relations to an Enhanced Partnership, signed by EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas and Philippine Secretary for Foreign Affairs Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro on 24 July 2026. The upgrade, formalized during Kallas' participation in ASEAN ministerial events in Metro Manila, deepens cooperation on foreign affairs, security, governance, climate change, digital transition under the Global Gateway Strategy, and people-to-people exchanges. The partnership builds on the existing EU-Philippines Partnership and Cooperation Agreement and reflects shared values of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.
The joint statement also expands security and defence cooperation, building on the Security and Defence Dialogue launched in June 2025, covering maritime security, cybersecurity, hybrid threats, and foreign information manipulation. Both sides reaffirmed support for a rules-based international order in the Indo-Pacific. Kallas congratulated the Philippines for its ASEAN Chairmanship and noted its consistent support for UN resolutions on Ukraine. The Enhanced Partnership is expected to intensify EU-Philippines engagement across multiple sectors, with potential impacts on trade, investment, and regional stability. For the EU, the upgrade strengthens its strategic footprint in the Indo-Pacific; for the Philippines, it provides access to EU expertise and funding under Global Gateway. The agreement may also influence ASEAN-EU relations, as the Philippines holds the ASEAN chair. No immediate financial commitments were announced, but the partnership signals a shift from transactional to more strategic ties.