Philippines, Spain ink pact on intel protection

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines has signed an agreement with Spain, ensuring the protection of classified intelligence information that both countries intend to share in the field of defense.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana signed the agreement with Spain’s Minister of Defense Margarita Robles in Madrid last week.

According to Arsenio Andolong, spokesman for the Department of National Defense, the pact recognizes the importance of information sharing in fostering a mutual understanding and closer cooperation between the two countries.

“It is an important step to further deepening defense relations between the Philippines and Spain, as the two countries both endeavor to develop their defense capabilities and promote shared interest in a rules-based international order,” Andolong said.

The defense chiefs discussed matters of mutual interest, including the importance of strengthening partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region, fostering multilateral cooperation and addressing the global issue of climate change.

Lorenzana also welcomed the growing defense relations between the Philippines and partner countries in Europe, including Spain.

He will be attending the International Defense Industry Exhibition 2021 while in Madrid.