The Senate has concurred in the ratification of an agreement between the Philippines and Japan to enhance cooperation and facilitate reciprocal access between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Japan’s Self-Defense Forces.
Senate Resolution No. 1248, authored by Senator Imee Marcos, cited Article VII, Section 21 of the Philippine Constitution, which rstates that no treaty or international agreement be valid unless approved by at least two-thirds of the Senate.
Signed on July 8, 2024 in Manila, the agreement sets out provisions for entry and departure, movement, access to facilities, and professional practices for both military personnel and civilian components engaged in cooperative activities.
It also establishes rules governing jurisdiction over the actions of the visiting forces and civilian personnel.
According to the resolution, the agreement aims to strengthen security and defense ties between the Philippines and Japan, boosting interoperability and enabling more extensive military cooperation and exercises. It also focuses on expanding defense collaboration in the maritime domain amid shared security challenges.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ratified the agreement on November 5, 2024, and submitted it to the Senate for concurrence.IMT
