Metro Manila, Philippines – Philippine-Japan defense relations are set to expand significantly with the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) taking effect on Sept. 11, Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya said. The pact will allow both countries to conduct more joint military exercises, humanitarian operations, and equipment transfers, signaling a “new stage” in bilateral security cooperation.
“We are very much glad to see steady progress in our security and defense cooperation with the Philippines,” Endo told NewsWatch Plus in an exclusive interview.
Equipment and capability upgrades
Japan has already provided the Philippines with patrol planes and air surveillance radars, with additional programs underway to strengthen Manila’s defense capabilities.“We have already transferred our patrol planes as well as air surveillance radars to the Philippines, and we are still working on various other programs, including our official security assistance,” Endo said.Even before the RAA takes effect, Japanese Self-Defense Forces had been a regular presence in Philippine waters. In the first six months of 2025, 11 Japanese vessels made port visits, underscoring the steady expansion of defense ties.“Even before the entry into force of the RAA, there were already lots of joint activities between the Philippines and Japan,” Endo said.
Next-level defense agreements
Beyond the RAA, Manila and Tokyo are negotiating the Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA), which will allow the exchange of supplies and services between the two militaries, as well as a potential information security pact.“The two leaders announced that we will be starting formal negotiations of an acquisition and cross-servicing agreement. They have also agreed to start discussions related to a potential agreement on information security,” Endo said.
