SEOUL — Amid discussions on enhancing security in the Indo-Pacific region, experts at the Stratbase ADRI forum on Friday advocated for South Korea to consider entering into a visiting forces agreement (VFA) with the Philippines and to participate in maritime patrols in the South China Sea (SCS). These discussions highlight a growing strategic alignment between Manila and Seoul as they navigate shared security concerns in the region.
According to Philippines News Agency, former Korean Defense Vice Minister and Senior Research Fellow at Sejong Institute, Shin Beomchul, expressed the need to bolster defense cooperation through expanded joint military drills to enhance interoperability. He revealed that discussions on a potential Philippine-Korea VFA have been ongoing, albeit progressing slower than expected.
Korean Ambassador to the Philippines, Lee Sang-hwa, confirmed that the proposal for a VFA is under consideration, though he refrained from detailing the current status of the discussions. Meanwhile, Yonsei University Associate Professor Park Jae Jeok remarked that Korea’s participation in regional maritime patrols would support its broader Indo-Pacific Strategy, emphasizing Seoul’s commitment to maintaining a ‘rules-based’ order in the region.
The discussion extends beyond security, as Prof. Yeon Wonho of the Korea National Diplomatic Academy highlighted the importance of bilateral cooperation in fields like critical minerals and cybersecurity, particularly in light of potential geopolitical conflicts in the South China Sea that could impact submarine internet cables. Yeon underscored the strategic relevance of the Philippines due to its significant mineral reserves and qualified workforce, suggesting Southeast Asia as a viable alternative to China for Korean supply chains.
These engagements reflect an ongoing effort by South Korea and the Philippines to solidify their positions within a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape, focusing on strengthening bilateral relations and ensuring regional stability.