PH-Japan defense pact enters into force

The Philippines and Japan’s Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) has entered into force, according to the Department of National Defense (DND) on Thursday.

In a statement, the DND said the RAA carries forward the robust strategic partnership between the two countries.

The defense deal also validates the strength of people-to-people ties, shared values, and international principles, as well as a common purpose for the security and stability of the region, according to the DND.

“We are grateful for the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., the Philippine Senate, and the Japanese Government for their unequivocal support as we lay the foundation for closer collaboration between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Japan Self-Defense Forces,” the DND said.

“The RAA supports the efforts of the Department of National Defense to build and enhance the country’s deterrence and provide the much-needed leverage for the advancement of our national interests,” it added.

On Wednesday, the DND said preparations for the formal approval of the RAA’s implementing arrangements are already underway.

The 1987 Philippine Constitution prohibits foreign troops from establishing permanent military bases in the Philippines. 

With the RAA, the deployment of Japanese forces and Filipino troops in each other's territory for joint exercises will be allowed.

The Philippines in the past years has expanded maritime and defense security cooperation with other countries amid the tensions with China in the West Philippines Sea. –VAL, GMA Integrated News