Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo and EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas at a joint news conference in Manila (Photo: PNA)

Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo and EU’s chief diplomat, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas, announced the initiative in Manila.

Manalo said as partners committed to a rules-based international order, the two side will remain proactive and united in addressing emerging security threats and challenges that transcend borders, cyber attacks, foreign interference, and manipulation of information.

Kallas said the new dialogue will be a dedicated platform in which the regional bloc and the Philippines can deepen defense cooperation, share expertise on security matters, and explore joint initiatives.

With the Philippines to be ASEAN president in 2026, Manalo said he is optimistic that tighter relationship with the EU will help address the joint challenges in the region.