EU Ambassadors Reaffirm Support for Philippines on West Philippine Sea

EU Marks Europe Day with Strong Support for PH

More than 20 ambassadors from European Union member states gathered to celebrate Europe Day 2025 in Makati. The event was led by Ambassador Massimo Santoro of the EU Delegation to the Philippines and hosted at the Manila Peninsula hotel.

Top Philippine officials, including Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Theresa Lazaro and the Apostolic Papal Nuncio, who is also the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, attended the event. Together, they highlighted the EU’s commitment to a rules-based international order.

Firm Stand on West Philippine Sea

Ambassador Santoro clearly expressed the EU’s firm support for the Philippines regarding the West Philippine Sea dispute. He emphasized that both the EU and the Philippines stand against the “law of the strongest.” Instead, they promote global institutions and international law. He said, “Whether in Europe or in the South China Sea, including the West Philippine Sea, our goal is to strengthen the role of global rules.”

This statement reflects the EU’s long-standing concerns about tensions in the West Philippine Sea. Several EU countries, such as France, Germany, Poland, Spain, Italy, and Denmark, have established defense and maritime security agreements with the Philippines. These partnerships work hand in hand with the Philippines’ existing defense treaties with Japan, Australia, and the United States.

Undersecretary Lazaro also pointed out that many EU nations share the Philippines’ views on South China Sea issues. She stressed that maritime cooperation remains a vital part of their growing relationship.

Boosting Economic Ties with Free Trade

Beyond security, the EU and the Philippines are working to deepen their economic partnership. In response to rising tariffs from the United States on various products, the EU is crafting an ambitious Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the Philippines.

Ambassador Santoro explained that the proposed FTA aims to enable tax-free exports of Filipino goods to the EU while lowering tariffs on European imports. This development promises bigger profits for Filipino exporters and more affordable products for consumers.

Undersecretary Lazaro expressed hope that the FTA, supported by the GSP Plus framework, will give a strong boost to Filipino businesses and exporters in the coming year.

Commitment to Environment and Sustainability

Aside from security and trade, the EU delegation reaffirmed its dedication to environmental protection. Their initiatives align with global goals like the Sustainable Development Goals, the Paris Agreement, and the Global Gateway investment strategy, reflecting a shared vision for a sustainable future.

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