Marcos to raise West Philippine Sea, Middle East crisis in Japan state visit

Metro Manila, Philippines –  President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said he will raise concerns over the West Philippine Sea and the Middle East during his state visit to Japan, highlighting security issues amid rising global tensions.

In a pre-departure speech on Tuesday, May 26, the president said discussions with Japanese leaders will center on key regional and international challenges affecting peace and stability.

“I will be advancing Philippine priorities and we will discuss where future synergies and complementary interests converge with those of Japan in the West Philippine Sea, the ongoing conflict in the Middle East,” he said.

The president highlighted the importance of his visit to the regional ally.

“This state visit is essential amid an increasingly challenging and evolving global environment,” Marcos said.

He added that strengthening alliances is part of the strategy to respond to these developments.

“It forms part of a broader foreign policy agenda to forge closer political ties, stronger defense and security cooperation, and more enduring economic partnerships with major countries in the region,” he said.

Marcos said he would push for expanded cooperation with Japan.

“I will be actively cultivating collaboration in priority areas that we have identified together such as… maritime cooperation… defense and security,” he said.

He noted the importance of partnerships in maintaining regional peace.

Marcos said he will meet with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.

“The prime minister and I will have a comprehensive discussion on various issues and explore ways to strengthen our bilateral coordination and cooperation, from our security and economic relations to our steadfast commitment to regional, global peace and prosperity,” he said.

The two leaders are also expected to witness the signing of key agreements on security, trade, and investment.

Marcos said boosting ties with Japan will help enhance the country’s defense posture while promoting stability in the Indo-Pacific.

“I believe we can further expand our security, economic, and development cooperation in order to enhance our national defense posture and to uplift the standard of living of Filipinos,” he said.

The four-day visit coincides with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between both sides.