President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru on Tuesday agreed to initiate discussions on the exchange of defense supplies and logistical support, aiming to further enhance defense cooperation between the two countries.
In a joint press conference, President Marcos emphasized Japan’s continued support in helping the Philippines achieve its aspirations for peace and friendship “with all nations with strength and integrity.”
“Further, we have agreed to start negotiations on an Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA),” the President said, referring to a bilateral pact allowing the two countries’ armed forces to exchange logistical support, supplies, and services.
The ACSA aims to enhance interoperability by facilitating requirements of military exercises and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) activities between the Philippines and Japan.
Prime Minister Ishiba is currently in Manila for a two-day official visit. He is accompanied by his wife, Ishiba Yoshiko.
President Marcos warmly welcomed the Prime Minister and his wife to Malacañan Palace, highlighting the enduring and growing importance of Philippines-Japan relations, which will mark their 70th anniversary next year.
The President described Japan as a crucial and steadfast partner, noting that it is the Philippines’ second-largest economic partner and a major source of trade, investment, and development assistance — 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 … primarily because it supports our maritime domain awareness, infrastructure, food security, improved climate change adaptability, digital transformation, agriculture, space, cyber technology, health, and energy, and many others,” President Marcos said.
President Marcos also acknowledged Japan’s contribution to peace efforts in Mindanao and the country’s defense modernization through its Official Security Assistance program.
The President also vowed to continue strengthening economic ties with Japan through the Philippine-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement. | PND
