The Philippines and Ukraine are united by shared experiences as resilient nations confronting complex regional security challenges. Both countries face challenges to their territorial integrity and sovereignty and rely on strong national resolve, multilateral diplomacy, and a rules-based international order to protect their interests. 

With over 32 years of diplomatic relations, the Philippines and Ukraine continue to deepen their cooperation through sustained dialogue and a mutual commitment to peace, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. In June 2024, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made a historic visit to Manila – the first by a Ukrainian head of state. During his meeting with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties. President Zelenskyy expressed appreciation for the Philippines’ support, while President Marcos Jr. reiterated the country’s firm stance on promoting peace and upholding international law. 

The deepening relationship between the Philippines and Ukraine is reflected in their growing diplomatic engagement and defense cooperation. President Zelenskyy’s visit marked a significant milestone in bilateral relations, reinforcing their shared commitment to the international rules-based order amid evolving global security challenges. In a bilateral meeting with Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro, Ukrainian Deputy Minister of Defense Oleksandr Kozenko announced the upcoming assignment of a Ukrainian defense attaché to Manila. He also expressed interest in learning from the Philippines, particularly in the areas of maritime disaster response and post-trauma recovery. 

In light of these developments, the Stratbase Institute, in partnership with the Embassy of Ukraine in the Philippines, organized a forum entitled “Strengthening Strategic Ties: Enhancing Cooperation between the Philippines and Ukraine.” The conference was held on 23 September 2025 (Tuesday), from 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (PHT), at Avenue Room, Manila House Private Club, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City.  

This event was part of the official visit to the Philippines of a delegation composed of Members of the Parliament of Ukraine and representatives from leading Ukrainian analytical institutions. It brought together government officials, members of the diplomatic community, scholars, and policy experts from both the Philippines and Ukraine to deepen mutual understanding and dialogue, explore shared challenges in maritime security, and chart pathways for cooperation in a changing global environment.