Japan and the Philippines have strengthened their military cooperation by signing the Philippines-Japan Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) in Manila. This agreement allows troops from both countries to deploy on each other’s soil for training and operations under Visiting Force status. The signing of the pact comes amidst rising tensions in the disputed South China Sea between the Philippines and China.
The Chinese Foreign Ministry cautioned against actions that could undermine regional peace and stability, in response to the signing of the military agreement. In a 2+2 meeting in Manila, Japanese and Filipino foreign and defense ministers expressed concern over China’s escalation in the region.
Japan and the Philippines, both treaty allies of the US, have deepened their security cooperation with the establishment of the 2+2 format to enhance defense policy coordination. With an annual trade volume of $20.71 billion, the two nations have signed 264 bilateral agreements, making Japan one of the Philippines’ strategic partners.
While Tokyo signed the RAA with Australia and the UK, Manila maintains Visiting Forces Agreements with Washington and Canberra. The military agreement signifies a strengthening of ties between Japan and the Philippines in the face of regional challenges.