Philippines Voices Support for Reciprocal Access Agreement Amid Indo-Pacific Tensions
The National Security Council (NSC) recently joined an increasing number of government bodies in backing the ratification of the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) between the Philippines and Japan. This move comes at a crucial time, as the Indo-Pacific region faces growing uncertainty and volatility.
National Security Adviser Eduardo Año emphasized that the agreement is both timely and strategic, highlighting the importance of the RAA in strengthening Philippine-Japan defense relations. “This is a defining moment in Philippine-Japan defense relations: timely, strategic, and grounded in shared interests,” he said.
Enhancing Joint Military Cooperation
The RAA aims to facilitate joint military operations, training programs, and humanitarian missions involving the forces of both countries. It enables the deployment of troops and equipment to each other’s territories for exercises similar to the well-known Balikatan Exercise, which the Philippines conducts with the United States Armed Forces.
Moreover, the agreement clarifies the legal status of visiting forces, ensuring smooth cooperation and mutual respect under international law. This framework equips both nations to act decisively and credibly in response to regional security challenges.
Addressing Regional Security and Sovereignty Concerns
The Indo-Pacific’s security landscape is increasingly unpredictable, making the Philippines’ and Japan’s collaboration vital. Despite criticism from China—citing historical grievances regarding Japan’s wartime actions—the NSC insists that the RAA is about defending sovereignty, stability, and the rule of law.
“It provides a clear framework for cooperation and sends an unmistakable message: the Philippines and Japan are prepared to stand together to uphold international law and a rules-based regional order,” Año explained.
Building Trust and Strategic Partnerships
Japan’s decision to pursue its first reciprocal access agreement in Asia with the Philippines highlights the deep trust and shared understanding between the two countries. “The RAA is both a practical mechanism and a strategic signal,” Año added.
The Philippines becomes the third nation to sign such an agreement with Japan, following Australia and the United Kingdom. This expands the country’s network of defense partnerships, complementing existing Visiting Forces Agreements with the United States and Australia.
Meanwhile, the Department of National Defense is actively negotiating similar arrangements with France, Canada, and New Zealand, among others. Earlier, the Armed Forces of the Philippines and several lawmakers also voiced their strong support for ratifying the RAA.
For more news and updates on Philippine-Japan defense relations, visit Filipinokami.com.