The EU and Philippines: Advancing security and stability

As global and regional security challenges intensify, from geopolitical competition to threats against critical infrastructure, the European Union and the Philippines stand together as committed partners in defending the rules-based international order. The EU Indo-Pacific Strategy underscores our dedication to peace, multilateralism and stability across the region. This commitment is aligned with our broader vision – an open and secure Indo-Pacific where international law prevails, trade flows freely and maritime routes critical to global commerce remain safe.

In November, the EU convened the 4th EU-Indo-Pacific Ministerial Forum in Brussels, where 70 delegations from across two regions gathered to discuss ways to develop a more resilient, prosperous and secure future. A dedicated session on the Protection of Critical Maritime Infrastructure, including submarine cables, underscored the shared challenges facing the EU and the Indo-Pacific. The Philippines is a highly valued actor in this initiative.

Under the project Enhancing the EU’s Security Cooperation In and With Asia and the Indo-Pacific (ESIWA and ESIWA+), the EU and the Philippines discussed last July 2025 collaboration on the protection of critical infrastructure crucial for global communications and economic security. This discussion proved essential in developing joint strategies to bolster the resilience of critical infrastructure, to facilitate knowledge exchange and capacity-building initiatives. Following this meeting, we have begun identifying concrete areas where we can deepen this cooperation and outline potential next steps to advance this shared agenda.

The EU and the Philippines launched a bilateral Security and Defense Dialogue last June, on the occasion of the EU High Representative and Vice President of the European Commission, Kaja Kallas’ successful visit to Manila. This dialogue is a milestone in our growing partnership, one that recognizes the interconnected nature of security challenges facing both Europe and the Indo-Pacific. The first-ever session of the Security and Defense Dialogue took place on Nov. 25 in Brussels, marking a significant step in strengthening cooperation on maritime security, including hybrid threats in maritime domain, cybersecurity, hybrid, foreign interference manipulation of information (FIMI), peace mediation and conflict prevention, countering of violent extremism. The Security and Defense Dialogue reflects a strong commitment to address these pressing challenges through sustained engagement, practical cooperation and adherence to international law. This expanded cooperation builds on a growing activity of the EU and its member-states in the Philippines, underscoring our enduring commitment to the Philippines and the region.

Maritime security remains at the heart of our collaboration. Big part of a global maritime trade passes through the Indo-Pacific, making the safety of sea lanes vital not only to regional economies but to global stability. The EU continues to emphasize the importance of international law, including UNCLOS, and has consistently highlighted the significance of the 2016 Arbitral Award, which remains legally binding.

Projects like CRIMARIO and the IORIS maritime information-sharing platform demonstrate how practical tools can strengthen maritime domain awareness. As the first country in Southeast Asia to adopt IORIS, the Philippines, together with the National Maritime Center, the Philippine Coast Guard, the Navy, the Maritime Industry Authority and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, has set a solid example of how national agencies can collaborate effectively through a shared maritime framework and how strong coordination at national level leads to regional cooperation.

The EU and the Philippines celebrated several milestones in recent months. Manila hosted the 3rd IORIS Steering Committee Policy Board and Working Group Meeting, bringing together participants from 45 Indo-Pacific countries. This was a great opportunity to feature success stories illustrating the IORIS platform’s tangible impact and contributions to regional cooperation.

From counter-piracy operations to drug interdictions, from search-and-rescue missions to combating illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, these initiatives show how shared platforms translate into real-world security gains.

Cybersecurity has emerged as a critical priority as digital networks become more interconnected and vulnerable to attack. Through our dialogue, we share best practices, enhance technical capabilities and develop coordinated responses to cyber incidents. We are also confronting the growing challenge of foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI). The EU and the Philippines, as vibrant democracies, continue to work together to strengthen societal resilience against such manipulation while protecting freedom of expression and democratic values.

As the Philippines prepares for its ASEAN chairship in 2026, under the theme “Navigating Our Future, Together,” the EU is committed to supporting its leadership at a pivotal moment for the region. Climate change, technological disruption and geopolitical competition continue to shape the security landscape. Yet this situation presents more opportunities for cooperation. By working together, we foster a truly collaborative network that promotes maritime safety, protects economic interests through the blue economy and contributes to regional stability.

The EU-Philippines partnership is anchored on our shared commitment to democracy, human rights and the rule of law. Our futures are definitely intertwined; our values are aligned. Together, we navigate toward a more secure future for the EU and the Philippines.

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Massimo Santoro is the EU Ambassador to the Philippines.