Japan and the Philippines are bolstering their defence partnership in response to regional security challenges. Japanese Defence Minister Gen Nakatani and his Philippine counterpart, Gilberto Teodoro, met in Manila to discuss ongoing maritime tensions and signed a second security deal in December. This agreement focuses on enhancing the naval capabilities of the Philippines with Japan providing rigid hull inflatable boats (RHIB) and additional coastal radar systems.
The strategic dialogue comes as Japan and China continue to face off over uninhabited islands in the East China Sea. Known as the Senkaku Islands by Tokyo and the Diaoyu Islands by Beijing, these territories have long been a point of contention between the two nations. The recent discussions between Japan and the Philippines highlight shared concerns over China's assertive actions in the region.
Both countries have agreed on deepening cooperation through military exchanges and information sharing. A high-level strategic dialogue will be established among their military forces, underscoring the growing security ties between the two nations over the past two years. Japan recently donated a coastal radar to a naval station in the northern Philippines as part of its ¥600 million yen (US$4 million) security assistance program in 2023. The Philippines was one of the first recipients of this official security assistance, aimed at boosting deterrence capabilities.
Gen Nakatani emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating:
"The security environment surrounding us is becoming increasingly severe and that it is necessary for the two countries as strategic partners to further enhance defence cooperation and collaboration to maintain peace and stability in Indo-Pacific."
The meeting also addressed regional security issues in the South China Sea, where both countries share common concerns over China's growing influence. The agreement reflects a mutual commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
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