PH, Japan to upgrade defense ties with acquisition, logistics, and information-sharing pact

Metro Manila, Philippines - The Philippines and Japan are set to strengthen defense cooperation with the start of negotiations for an Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA) and the potential conclusion of a Security of Information Agreement, underscoring both countries' commitment to regional stability and interoperability.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru jointly announced the move during a press conference at Malacañan Palace on Tuesday, as part of the Japanese leader’s two-day official visit to Manila.

“We have agreed to start negotiations on an Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement,” Marcos said, adding that the deal will facilitate the exchange of logistical support, supplies, and services between the two countries’ armed forces.

The ACSA is expected to support military exercises, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief operations.

The President lauded Japan’s enduring role in helping the Philippines achieve “peace and friendship with all nations with strength and integrity,” emphasizing Japan's role as a reliable and crucial partner in both economic and security arenas.

Ishiba said the ACSA would deepen bilateral defense cooperation that has expanded significantly in recent years.

“We also confirmed to start the government-to-government discussion on potential conclusion of a Security of Information Agreement in the future,” he said.

Both leaders also affirmed the importance of trilateral cooperation among Japan, the Philippines, and the United States, particularly amid increasing regional security challenges.

Marcos welcomed Ishiba and his wife, Ishiba Yoshiko, at the Palace, noting the significance of the visit as the two nations prepare to celebrate the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2026.

The President described Japan as the Philippines’ second-largest economic partner, praising its consistent trade, investment, and development assistance and calling it hallmarks of what he called a “golden age” in bilateral ties.

“We appreciate Japan’s development assistance, which we see as the gold standard for development cooperation,” Marcos said, citing Japan’s support in various sectors including maritime domain awareness, infrastructure, agriculture, climate resilience, cybersecurity, digital transformation, and defense modernization through its Official Security Assistance program.

The leaders also reaffirmed commitments under the Philippine-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement, vowing to enhance economic cooperation amid evolving geopolitical and economic challenges.