The Philippines and Japan are reinforcing their defense ties in response to increasing concerns over China’s expanding military activities in the region. During a meeting in Manila on Monday, February 24, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani discussed key measures to enhance bilateral security cooperation, including the establishment of a high-level dialogue and agreements on defense exports and military information sharing.
Shared Concerns Over China’s Maritime Actions
The central focus of the talks was the rising tensions in the East and South China Seas, areas where both countries have territorial disputes with China. China's aggressive actions, including its claims over nearly the entire South China Sea and confrontations with Philippine vessels, have raised alarms. Similarly, Japan faces territorial disputes with China over the Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea. Both countries are determined to strengthen their defense cooperation to address these growing challenges and safeguard their maritime interests.
Expanding Military Cooperation
The Philippines and Japan also agreed to deepen military collaboration by starting discussions on enhancing defense exports and securing sensitive military information. Japan's defense exports to the Philippines have been limited so far, but both nations are keen to expand these exchanges as the Philippines advances its military modernization program. This program aims to modernize the Philippine military with new equipment, such as fighter jets, missiles, and frigates. In addition, both sides agreed to launch a strategic dialogue to improve military information sharing and strengthen their defense partnership.
Strengthening Alliances in the Indo-Pacific
Further discussions emphasized the importance of reinforcing trilateral cooperation with the United States and Australia, particularly within the Quad framework. Both Japan and the Philippines are committed to upholding international law and ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific, countering any attempts by China to alter the regional balance. As part of their growing partnership, Japan’s warships visited the Philippines, while joint naval exercises with the French Navy in the South China Sea underscored their commitment to regional stability.
