National Security Adviser (NSA) Eduardo Año said the planned reciprocal access agreement (RAA) between the Philippines and Japan will greatly boost the military cooperation between the two countries, aside from improving regional security.
“The proposed RAA will facilitate the procedures and set guidelines when Philippine forces visit Japan for training and joint exercises, and vice versa,” Ano said in a statement.
He also said Japan’s commitment to provide coastal surveillance radars and support through the Official Security Assistance (OSA) program is a “testament to Japanese dedication in strengthening the security and deterrence capabilities of partner countries in the Asia-Pacific region.”
“We are honored to be the first beneficiary of this program, which aligns with our efforts to improve our maritime domain awareness capability, maintain regional stability, and protect the rules-based international order,” Ano said.
Año added that the ongoing trilateral cooperation between Japan, the Philippines and the United States is pivotal in safeguarding the freedom of the seas in the West Philippine Sea and promoting international law.
“Japan’s support in the form of equipment, technology cooperation, and patrol vessels will further enhance our maritime law enforcement capabilities,” he noted.
Año said the Philippine government is looking forward to the negotiations and implementation of these agreements and initiatives, which will “undoubtedly strengthen the partnership and contribute to a more secure and stable Indo-Pacific region.”