Canada backs PH maritime monitoring, port upgrades and disaster resilience

ASM, Philippine Canadian Inquirer
September 29, 2026

Photo courtesy: Philippine News Agency

MANILA, Philippines – Canada has committed to support the Philippines in strengthening maritime monitoring, modernizing ports and improving disaster resilience as the two countries expand cooperation in the transport sector.

Canadian Ambassador to the Philippines David Hartman met with acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez at the Department of Transportation (DOTr) office in Quezon City on Monday, Sept. 28, to discuss areas where Canada could support Philippine transport development.

According to the DOTr, the discussions covered maritime domain awareness, monitoring of illegal fishing in coastal areas, port modernization and disaster resilience, with particular attention to strengthening the capabilities of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).

Hartman transportation network.

Lopez said cooperation with developed countries could help improve connectivity and make Philippine transportation systems more sustainable.

“With our long-standing partnership with Canada, we’re confident that they can help us develop our transport system for the benefit of the Filipinos,” Lopez said.

The discussions were not limited to the maritime sector. Lopez also briefed Hartman on major Philippine transportation infrastructure projects involving railways, aviation, roads and maritime transport, according to the DOTr.

The department said the meeting supports President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to expand international partnerships as the government works to develop and modernize the country’s transportation systems. Canada supports the DOTr’s mandate from a maritime perspective and pointed to several areas where the two countries could work together.

“We particularly support the DOTr and your mandate from a marine perspective with maritime domain awareness—coastal illegal fishing monitoring, port modernization,” Hartman said, adding that disaster resilience is another important area for cooperation.

The commitment comes as Canada and the Philippines continue to broaden bilateral cooperation beyond traditional trade and diplomatic ties.

Canada and the Philippines elevated their relationship to a Strategic Partnership in July 2026, identifying areas including defense and security, trade and investment, energy, critical minerals and infrastructure for deeper cooperation.