The Philippines and Canada reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral development cooperation and pursuing shared priorities under the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028. Â
This commitment was underscored during a recent high-level meeting between Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan and Canadian Secretary of State for International Development Randeep Sarai at the DEPDev Office in Mandaluyong City. Â
The meeting highlighted the enduring partnership between the two nations and the alignment of Canada’s development priorities with the PDP. Discussions covered Canada’s overall assistance portfolio and common priorities in trade and investment.
Balisacan expressed appreciation for Canada’s continued support of the Philippine government’s development agenda, citing its contributions through grants extended to national agencies, civil society organizations, and private sector partners.
“Canada’s development cooperation has been instrumental in advancing the Philippines’ goals for inclusive, sustainable, and resilient growth. Their support, channeled through Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade, and Development, will be invaluable as we focus on critical sectors aimed at achieving long-term sustainability and inclusive growth for all Filipinos,” Balisacan said.
As of September 2025, Canada ranks 14th among the Philippines’ top bilateral development partners, with ongoing support across critical sectors such as health, climate adaptation, and governance.
“Canada stands alongside the Filipino people as partners in building a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable future. We are committed in our partnership to strengthening disaster preparedness, and unlocking economic opportunities that benefit both our countries,” Secretary of State Sarai said.
The Philippines and Canada currently co-chair the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Southeast Asia Regional Program (SEARP) for 2025–2028. The partnership, launched in June 2025, focuses on promoting resilient and inclusive growth in the region through investments in connectivity and sustainable infrastructure; digitalization and innovation; and small-medium enterprises (SMEs), private sector development and engagement, and responsible business conduct (RBC). Â
During the meeting, both officials agreed to formalize and outline the framework for the two countries’ collaboration through a Letter of Understanding on Bilateral Development Assistance. DEPDev and the Department of Finance (DOF) will serve as co-signatories for the Philippine government.
The framework will guide future programs that promote long-term sustainability, resilience, and inclusive growth, implemented by civil society organizations (CSOs), the private sector, and multilateral organizations.
