The Ministry of Defence has confirmed that HMS Richmond, a Type 23 frigate deployed with the UK Carrier Strike Group, has visited Manila as part of efforts to strengthen defence cooperation and expand trade links with the Philippines.
The visit forms part of the CSG’s eight-month Indo-Pacific deployment, which includes engagements with 30 countries. According to the MoD, the port call demonstrates Britain’s intent to maintain a continuous regional presence and deepen defence and economic partnerships.
Defence Minister Lord Vernon Coaker, visiting Manila alongside the ship, said: “The UK’s relationship with the Philippines is strong and continues to flourish. Together we can help shape a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific.”
He added: “The deployment of the UK Carrier Strike Group to the Indo-Pacific reflects the importance of the region to UK security and prosperity.”
The government has framed the visit within its Strategic Defence Review, which emphasised the indivisibility of Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific security and set a goal of raising defence spending to 2.6% of GDP by 2027.
During the trip, Lord Coaker presented a letter of approval from Defence Secretary John Healey to begin discussions on a Status of Visiting Forces Agreement (SOVFA) with the Philippines. The MoD described this as a significant step that could lead to more joint exercises, naval cooperation, and capacity-building activity.
HMS Richmond hosted an industry day showcasing British defence technology, which the MoD said supports UK jobs and potential exports. Later this year, the UK will also take part in Exercise SAMA SAMA for the fourth time, contributing expertise to Philippine capacity-building efforts.
The Carrier Strike Group deployment involves around 4,000 personnel and covers the Mediterranean, Middle East, South-East Asia, Japan, and Australia, which the MoD has characterised as making the UK “secure at home and strong abroad.”
I feel a little bewildered by the seeming diplomatic blitzkrieg that has been ongoing for the last few months. Obviously the Asia Pacific element has been temporarily bolstered by CSG25 and will likely tail off but I can’t help but be encouraged by the whole thing. On the other hand, why do I get the feeling that ,at some point, Daddy Bear will be back and start noticing that someone has been eating his porridge?