PH-Japan defense pact to take effect September 11

Filipino Times

3 days ago

The Philippines and Japan will formally implement their Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) on September 11, 2025, paving the way for expanded security cooperation, including joint military drills, disaster response, and other defense activities.
Foreign Affairs Secretary Theresa Lazaro and Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya led the ceremonial exchange of notes in Manila, marking the agreement's entry into force.
The RAA allows the deployment of Japanese and Filipino troops in each other's territory for exercises and training.
The Japanese Embassy said the pact would 'further promote security and defense cooperation' with the Philippines, describing it as a strategic partner at a vital maritime crossroads that shares 'fundamental values and principles.'
Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. stressed that the agreement is not aimed at any specific country but will serve as deterrence against actors who 'may not share our values.' He said it will enable both nations' armed forces to work together 'to preserve the world order against unilateral attempts to reshape it.'
The deal, modeled after Manila's Visiting Forces Agreement with the United States, is Japan's first defense pact in Asia. Tokyo has similar arrangements with Australia and the United Kingdom.
The Philippines and Japan have deepened defense ties under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in response to regional security challenges, including China's increasing assertiveness in the South China Sea and Tokyo's dispute with Beijing over the Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands in the East China Sea.