The
4th Korea–Philippines Maritime Dialogue convened in Manila on November 21,
co-chaired by Lee Dong-gi, Director-General for ASEAN Affairs at the Korean
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Emmanuel Donato K. Guzman, Assistant Secretary
for Maritime Affairs at the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs. The
meeting brought together roughly 40 officials from the Korea Coast Guard,
Ministry of National Defense, and Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, as well as
representatives from the Philippine Department of National Defense, National
Coast Watch Center, and National Security Council.
Both
sides highlighted the dialogue’s role as a model platform for cooperation
between two countries with high maritime dependence. The meeting reviewed ways
to deepen collaboration in maritime security and safety, the maritime economy,
and the marine environment. Participants also exchanged updates on policy
initiatives, including blue carbon programs, and discussed strengthening
cooperation at bilateral and multilateral levels.
During
the session on maritime security and safety, the Korean side presented case
studies on marine pollution response and countermeasures against illegal
fishing. Korea also noted that an MOU is under preparation between the Korea
Coast Guard and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency to bolster joint
responses to transnational crimes such as maritime drug trafficking. Once
established, the MOU is expected to enhance information sharing and
interdiction efforts. Both sides further expressed support for expanding joint
humanitarian assistance and disaster relief exercises, and agreed on the need
to revitalize shipbuilding and maritime cooperation in Subic Bay.
In
the session on the maritime economy and environment, the Korean delegation
introduced the “Korea Blue Action Plan” and outlined its blue carbon strategy,
which includes strengthening the ocean’s carbon sequestration capacity,
improving resilience to climate-related disasters, expanding private-sector
participation in blue carbon initiatives, and accelerating certification of new
blue carbon projects. Korea also sought the Philippines’ support for its bid to
host the 2028 UN Ocean Conference. In addition, the two sides agreed to step up
cooperation to ensure the successful conclusion next year of KOICA’s marine
litter management capacity-building project in Manila Bay.
The
two countries reaffirmed their commitment to close coordination in shaping
international maritime norms, including at the International Maritime
Organization. The Philippine side noted that it will prioritize maritime
cooperation during its ASEAN Chairmanship in 2026. Korea expressed strong
support for the Philippines’ upcoming chairmanship and pledged to work closely
with ASEAN to strengthen regional maritime security capabilities. The two sides
also exchanged views on developments in the South China Sea, including ongoing
negotiations on the Code of Conduct.
The
meeting concluded with an agreement to hold the 5th Korea–Philippines Maritime
Dialogue in Korea next year.








