Australia is increasing its security engagement with the Philippines through targeted defence infrastructure investments and expanded cooperation, reinforcing Manila’s strategic partnerships with Canberra and Washington at a time of heightened tension in the Indo-Pacific.

Canberra has identified opportunities to develop and upgrade military facilities at multiple sites on Luzon island — including key air and army bases — under the Enhanced Defence Cooperation Program, a framework agreed with the Philippine government that emphasises mutual capacity-building while respecting Philippine sovereignty.

These initiatives form part of a broader Strategic Partnership and build upon joint military exercises such as Exercise Alon and recurring staff talks between Australian and Philippine army leadership, aimed at deepening interoperability and readiness across combined training and defence activities.

The expansion of defence infrastructure is designed to support logistics, training and readiness, with Australia contributing expertise and construction support that complements Manila’s own modernisation efforts and strengthens allied deterrence in areas including maritime security and disaster response.

The Philippines remains a close security partner of the United States under the Mutual Defense Treaty, and Canberra’s investments are developing alongside the existing U.S. security framework, including the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement that facilitates U.S. rotational presence and infrastructure development at Philippine bases.

Australian officials describe their engagement as bolstering Manila’s defence capabilities and regional stability as part of a cooperative approach with like-minded partners.

Defence leaders from both countries have repeatedly reaffirmed their commitment to advancing defence cooperation amid strategic challenges posed by coercive actions in the South China Sea and wider regional uncertainty.

Australia’s role is framed not as replacing U.S. involvement but as complementary, reinforcing a network of security cooperation that supports Philippine self-defence, enhances combined deterrence and contributes to a stable, rules-based regional order.

Consultation between Canberra and Manila continues on the final scope and scale of infrastructure projects, with work expected to progress in 2026, and both sides emphasise the importance of joint planning, sustained engagement and interoperability as the security partnership evolves.