The Honourable Randeep Sarai, Secretary of State (International Development), has concluded a successful visit to the Philippines, reaffirming Canada's commitment to strengthening economic ties and exploring future trade opportunities.
A highlight of the visit was the announcement of $76.45 million in funding for 12 development projects in the Philippines, Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member states and the Indo-Pacific region-demonstrating Canada's dedication to supporting local priorities and shared prosperity. The funding will support projects designed to strengthen climate resilience, improve health outcomes and foster inclusive economic growth. By aligning Canadian assistance with the Philippines' development plans and supporting the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises, Canada is laying the groundwork for expanded commercial ties and trade diversification.
Canada also conveyed its solidarity with the Philippines as it recovers from recent natural disasters. In addition to the $650,000 announced in October to support emergency relief efforts, Canada is contributing an additional $250,000 to support the Red Cross' emergency appeal through the Emergency Disaster Assistance Fund and an additional $350,000 through the Canadian Humanitarian Assistance Fund. Secretary of State Sarai saw Canada's support in action at the Philippine Red Cross Logistics and Training Center, where relief supplies and emergency response efforts help protect lives and communities.
The Secretary of States's program included a site visit to the Loboc River Watershed in Bohol, a focal point for climate and disaster resilience initiatives, and meeting with Indigenous potato farmers and private sector representatives to see first-hand how Canadian expertise and technology are helping local communities boost productivity and strengthen supply chains.
During his visit, Secretary of State Sarai met with key cabinet members to identify areas where Canadian support can advance mutual priorities, such as the Philippines' transition to clean energy, strengthening food security and fostering climate resilience, particularly in sectors including agriculture, nuclear energy and mining.
Canada and the Philippines also signed a letter of understanding on bilateral development assistance on November 12. This Letter establishes an annual consultative mechanism and sets priority areas for collaboration, including climate action, disaster resilience, energy security, economic growth and trade readiness-further strengthening the foundation for long-term cooperation.
Secretary of State Sarai expressed Canada's strong support for the Philippines' upcoming ASEAN Chairship in 2026.
The trip sent a strong signal that the Indo-Pacific region-and the Philippines in particular-is central to Canada's strategy for building mutual prosperity and economic resilience.
