Japan and Philippines Sign New Defence Agreements Amid Rising Tensions

Philippines and Japan Sign Defence Pacts Amid Regional Tensions

The Philippines and Japan have signed two defence agreements, including an Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA) that allows for the tax-free provision of supplies and services during joint military training exercises.

The ACSA was signed by Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi and Philippine Foreign Secretary Theresa Lazaro in Manila. The deal also includes a $6m Official Security Assistance package from Tokyo to support the construction of facilities for rigid-hulled inflatable boats donated by Japan to enhance the Philippines’ naval capabilities.

According to Lazaro, the ACSA aims to “enhance our mutual military interoperability and readiness” during joint training exercises. Motegi stated that he and Lazaro agreed on opposing unilateral attempts to change the status quo in the East and South China seas.

The two countries have strengthened their military ties in recent years, with Japan supplying patrol boats and radio gear to the Philippines. The Philippines and China have engaged in frequent clashes in the South China Sea, which Beijing claims in nearly its entirety despite an international court ruling that its assertion has no legal basis.

In mid-2024, both countries signed the Reciprocal Access Agreement, allowing for the deployment of forces from either country to the other’s territory for joint and larger combat exercises. The agreement took effect in September 2024.

The Philippines and Japan have also been involved in a series of agreements aimed at countering China’s regional assertiveness. In his annual New Year’s address, Chinese President Xi Jinping called for the “reunification” of China and Taiwan, which has led to increased tensions between Beijing and Tokyo over historical and territorial issues.

Source: Al Jazeera