Tokyo and Manila Draw Closer in the Face of an Increasingly Assertive China
Japan and the Philippines upgrade ties as both countries face an increasingly assertive China. Intelligence-sharing and arms sales could be on the table as the two grow closer.
Japan, Philippines Elevate Partnership Amid Regional Tensions
REPORTER:
Applause fills the upper house of Japan’s parliament as Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. enters the chamber.
REPORTER:
His visit marks nearly 70 years since Japan and the Philippines normalized ties. Though Filipinos once harbored bitter memories of Japanese wartime occupation, today Tokyo and Manila are closer than ever. As members of the Pacific first island chain, both face a common rising threat from China and its maritime claims in the South and East China Seas, including claims over Taiwan.
Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. (PHILIPPINE PRESIDENT):
I am pleased to announce that we have elevated our relationship from a strengthened strategic partnership to a comprehensive strategic partnership.
REPORTER:
That slight change in wording carries major significance. The two sides have agreed to talks on sharing classified information. Tokyo could also send Manila naval destroyers and patrol aircraft.
Both sides also agree peace in the Taiwan Strait is key—and cross-strait issues need resolving through dialogue.
Tokyo and Manila have been strengthening defense ties in response to China’s growing assertiveness in the South China Sea and around Taiwan. Earlier this month, Japan joined annual US-Philippines military drills and recently eased restrictions on weapons exports, a move that could help support the Philippines.
Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae says in the face of an increasingly severe regional environment, the two sides must work together.
Takaichi Sanae (JAPANESE PRIME MINISTER):
While the global situation is in turmoil, the importance for Japan and the Philippines to work together has increased like never before in order to realize the advanced Free and Open Indo-Pacific.
REPORTER:
Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. is the first Philippine president to visit Japan in over a decade. His four-day trip, which ends Friday, shows that going forward, Japan will be a growing priority for the Philippines—and vice versa.
