Manila, Aug. 12 -- The Department of National Defense (DND) on Wednesday hailed the Senate for its unanimous concurrence in the ratification of the Status of Visiting Forces Agreements (SOVFA) with Canada and New Zealand, aimed at enhancing defense cooperation between partner nations.

On Tuesday, Senate Resolutions Nos. 548 and 549 each received 19 affirmative votes, with no negative votes or absentions.

"The Department of National Defense welcomes Senate Resolutions No. 548 and No. 549, expressing its concurrence on the ratification of the Status of Visiting Forces Agreements with Canada and New Zealand, respectively," the DND said in a statement.

The statement said the Senate's unanimous concurrence is a testament to the significanc...