Canada and the Philippines: A winning partnership

Point of view

- By MARY NG

Mabuhay from Canada! As I conclude a highly successful Team Canada Trade Mission to the Philippines, one thing is crystal clear: there has never been a better time for our two nations to deepen our economic partnership.

The numbers speak volumes about our existing relationship. The Philippines is our second-largest export market in Southeast Asia, with our two-way trade valued at C$3.4 billion. Seventy-five years after Canada opened its first trade office in Manila in December 1949, we've brought our largest-ever trade delegation of 300 participants to the Philippines—a beautiful symmetry that reflects how far our partnership has come.

At the heart of our partnership lies an extraordinary human connection that creates natural bridges between our nations. Our million-strong Filipino-Canadian community serves as powerful ambassadors, facilitating business relationships and deepening cultural understanding between our countries. They've enriched Canadian communities in countless ways, including introducing us to the delights of Jollibee's famous Chickenjoy—a taste of home that's become a Canadian favorite! More than 25,000 Canadians have made the Philippines their home. These bonds will soon be strengthened by Air Canada's announcement of direct flights to the Philippines, facilitating business ties and people-to-people exchanges.