With New Zealand the latest to join, the Philippines is building a network of defence partners amid South China Sea tensions (Andrea Chloe Wong – The Interpreter)

The Philippines signed a Status of Visiting Forces Agreement with New Zealand last month, regulating the deployment of troops for joint military exercises. The agreement marks a significant milestone after New Zealand joined the Philippines and other countries in 2024 for multilateral maritime drills in the South China Sea. The deal aligns with New Zealand’s support for freedom of navigation and overflight on the high seas. For the Philippines, it adds to its widening network of security partners.

With New Zealand the latest to join, the Philippines is building a network of defence partners amid South China Sea tensions | Lowy Institute