Japan and the Philippines yesterday signed a defense pact that would allow the tax-free provision of ammunition, fuel, food and other necessities when their forces stage joint training to boost deterrence against China’s growing aggression in the region and to bolster their preparation for natural disasters.
Japan has faced increasing political, trade and security tensions with China, which was angered by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s remark that a Chinese attack on Taiwan would be a survival-threatening situation for Japan, triggering a military response.
Japan and the Philippines have also had separate territorial conflicts with Beijing in the East and South China seas that have continued to flare and threaten to draw in the US, a treaty ally of the two Asian nations.
Photo: EPA
Japanese Minister of Foreign Affairs Toshimitsu Motegi signed the Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement with Philippine Secretary of Foreign Affairs Theresa Lazaro in Manila.
During the ceremony, Japan also announced new security and economic development assistance to the Philippines, including nearly US$6 million in funding for the construction of secure boat shelters and expanding Internet access in poor southern Philippine provinces.
“We both recognized the value of promoting the rule of law, including the freedom of navigation and overflight, especially in the South China Sea,” Lazaro said after the signing.
Motegi said he and Lazaro “concurred on continuing to oppose unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force or coercion in the East and South China seas,” in a clear rebuke of Beijing’s increasing assertiveness without naming China.
The military logistical agreement, which has to be ratified by Japanese lawmakers before it takes effect, is the latest key defense pact to be forged between Manila and Tokyo to deepen their security alliance.
Aside from facilitating joint combat drills, it would also help Japan and the Philippines jointly respond to natural disasters, a mutual concern, and participate in UN peacekeeping operations, Japanese and Philippine officials said.
In mid-2024, both countries signed the Reciprocal Access Agreement, which allows the deployment of forces of either country to the other’s territory for joint and larger combat exercises, including live-fire drills. It took effect in September.
Japanese and Philippine officials are still negotiating another agreement that aims to boost the security of highly confidential defense and military information the countries could share.
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