Vancouver: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney met at the Vancouver Convention Center to discuss enhancing cooperation between the Philippines and Canada.

According to Philippines News Agency, the bilateral meeting focused on expanding economic, political, and people-to-people ties. President Marcos emphasized the solid foundation of the relationship due to the nearly one million Filipinos living in Canada, highlighting their integration into Canadian society. He expressed gratitude for the acceptance of Filipinos and aimed to build stronger connections following this visit.

Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining close cooperation as longstanding partners. Prime Minister Carney acknowledged President Marcos' leadership role as this year's chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, emphasizing its significance for Asia and global peace and prosperity. Carney also noted the deep cultural ties and the benefits Canada continues to receive from the Philippines, stressing the importance of tightening these bonds.

President Marcos is in Vancouver for a four-day official visit to strengthen the Philippines' partnership with Canada. The two countries have maintained diplomatic relations since 1949, with nearly a million Filipinos residing in Canada as of June 2026, making it the second-largest host country for overseas Filipinos.

In 2025, bilateral merchandise trade between the Philippines and Canada reached USD3.4 billion, marking a 7.4 percent increase from USD3.2 billion in 2024. Additionally, bilateral trade in services was valued at USD3.2 billion in 2024, up by 19.9 percent from USD2.7 billion in 2023. The nations are accelerating negotiations for a free trade agreement and share a long-standing partnership in international assistance cooperation, with Canada providing over USD1 billion in official development assistance to the Philippines.