Manila Standard - 26 April 2026
FTA talks between PH, EU to discuss Middle East crisis
By Katrina Manubay
Negotiations for a Philippines–European Union free trade agreement (FTA) are approaching a pivotal phase in May, driven by increasing global tensions that emphasize the need for more stable trade, energy, and supply chains, according to EU ambassador to the Philippines, Massimo Santoro.
In an exclusive interview, Santoro highlighted that the sixth round of talks in May will be anchored amid external challenges, stressing the importance of dependable and predictable partners.
“I’m very, very proud of the fact that I can, without any hesitation, say that the European Union is a very reliable partner to the Philippines, not only on the security, defense dimension, we were mentioning development cooperation dimension, etc., but also in trade,” he said.
This statement follows the resumption of negotiations in 2024 after a pause, with the sixth round coming after the conclusion of the fifth round in March.
Santoro explained that after a year-long break, both sides conducted a scoping exercise to review and update previous texts, modifying provisions to address emerging challenges before officially restarting negotiations in 2024.
When asked about contentious issues, the envoy mentioned that negotiations are rarely straightforward, noting that the proposed deal is expected to be one of the Philippines’ most comprehensive free trade agreements, covering extensive cooperation in goods and services.
“It is fundamental, and I will say, not only for bringing to Europe or to the Philippines respectively goods with zero tariffs or services with zero tariffs, but because of the job creation. I mean, this is a country where 25% are young people, where the proficiency in English is very high, the highest in Southeast Asia,” he added.
The envoy further said the ongoing crisis in the Middle East could open additional opportunities for EU-Philippines cooperation on energy issues.
“Not only for the short term, but most importantly for the medium term, but we need to get out of it, because nothing good comes from a situation where energy is what it is. I mean, the impact, I think, here on the citizens is very visible. Identical scenario is in Europe,” the envoy said.
Both sides aim to conclude the Free Trade Agreement negotiations by the second half of 2026.
In March, the fifth round of negotiations in Brussels reaffirmed their shared goal to reach a comprehensive, ambitious agreement that enhances economic ties and fosters resilient, sustainable growth.
