Security through Intelligence Sharing: The US–Philippines GSOMIA

The defence relations between the United States and the Philippines dates to 1951 Mutual Defence Treaty (MDT), and has evolved over the years into a modern, mature, comprehensive security partnership. Against the backdrop of growing tensions in the South China Sea, and China’s continuous force posture in region, Washington and Manila agreed to sign the General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA) in November 2024.1 This is a landmark negotiation as it provides the essential legal framework needed for the transfer of classified intelligence and data on advanced weapon systems, thereby materialising the vision of real-time data-sharing, crisis response and deterrence operations. GSOMIA further complements existing bilateral agreements including the Visiting Forces Agreement 1998, and the Enhanced Defence Cooperation Agreement 2014, thus strengthens interoperability, and completely inducts the Philippines into the US-led regional security architecture.