Japanese Defense Minister Nakatani Gen’s visit will further boost the defense cooperation between the Philippines and Japan amid regional shifts, according to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
“I hope that with the many changes that are occurring in our region, that your visit will – we will be able to discuss some of those anticipated changes that we are looking at in view of strengthening our relations between Japan and the Philippines,” Marcos told Gen during a courtesy call at Malacañang.
Gen noted significant progress in defense and security cooperation under Marcos and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s leadership.
During his three-day visit, he toured Basa Air Base and Wallace Air Station, where he observed Japan’s transferred air surveillance radar system. He also met with Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro.
Japan, one of the country’s four Strategic Partners, has 264 bilateral agreements with Manila, including defense equipment transfers, infrastructure projects, and Mindanao development.
Since 2023, the Philippines has been a priority recipient of Japan’s Official Security Assistance (OSA), receiving grant aid for two consecutive years. OSA supports the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) with security-related development assistance. The Japan Self-Defense Forces also provide education and training for the AFP.
Both nations co-chair the ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM)-Plus Maritime Security (2024-2027), focusing on naval cooperation, climate change mitigation, and marine protection.
In December 2024, the Philippines, Japan, and the US held their first Trilateral Maritime Dialogue in Tokyo, discussing strategic maritime concerns and strengthening ASEAN ties.
The Philippines and Japan will mark 69 years of diplomatic relations on July 23 and 14 years of Strengthened Strategic Partnership since 2011.IMT
