PH, Japan reaffirm partnership under new Japanese PM

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia - President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. met with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on the sidelines of the 47th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and Related Summits on Sunday, reaffirming the Philippines’ strong partnership with Japan under its newly elected leader.

The meeting marked Marcos’ first engagement with Takaichi, Japan’s first female prime minister, following her historic election.

Marcos emphasized the deepening cooperation between the Philippines and Japan in defense and security, noting the entry into force of the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) between the two nations in September 2025.

Both leaders also underscored the importance of the Philippines–United States–Japan trilateral cooperation, describing it as a cornerstone of regional peace, stability and development.

Marcos and Takaichi likewise expressed anticipation for the 70th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Japan, which will be celebrated in 2026.