Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. held separate bilateral talks with defense officials from Japan, Ukraine, and the Netherlands during the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore over the weekend, the Department of National Defense (DND) reported Monday.
Teodoro attended the 22nd International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) Shangri-La Dialogue from May 30 to June 1, using the event to strengthen strategic ties and promote security cooperation.
In a meeting with Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani, both sides emphasized deeper collaboration through joint exercises like Balikatan and Kamandag, and discussed the implementation of the Philippines-Japan Reciprocal Access Agreement. They also agreed to explore co-production of defense equipment.
Teodoro reaffirmed support for Ukraine’s sovereignty during talks with Ukrainian Deputy Minister of Defence Oleksandr Kozenko, who announced plans to assign a defense attaché to Manila. Both nations highlighted their interest in maritime response, defense technology, and adherence to international law.
Teodoro also met Dutch Minister of Defence Ruben Brekelmans to explore best practices in defense governance. The two officials expressed mutual interest in future joint military activities and extended invitations for official visits to deepen defense cooperation.
