Defense Undersecretary for Acquisitions and Resource Management Salvador Melchor B. Mison, Jr. welcomed Mr. Ben Merrick, Director of International Security of the United Kingdom’s Ministry of Defence, during a courtesy call held today at Camp Aguinaldo.

The meeting highlighted the growing defense partnership between the Philippines and the United Kingdom, with both officials expressing optimism over the progress of discussions leading to formal negotiations for a potential Status of Visiting Forces Agreement (SOVFA).

Undersecretary Mison and Mr. Merrick acknowledged the importance of deepening defense cooperation amid evolving regional and global security challenges. The proposed SOVFA would establish a legal framework for the presence of UK forces in the Philippines for joint training, humanitarian missions, and other cooperative activities.

The courtesy call was also attended by key officials from the Department of National Defense, including:

– Assistant Secretary for International Affairs Marita I. Yoro 

– Assistant Secretary for Logistics and Acquisitions Rene Raoul Rommel DC. Honasan 

– Assistant Secretary for Defense Technology Research and Industry Development Augusto V. Gaite

The meeting reflects the Philippines’ continued efforts to expand strategic partnerships and enhance interoperability with allied nations in support of regional peace and stability.

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