The Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, chaired by Senator Imee Marcos, has approved the Reciprocal Access Agreement RAA) between the Philippines and Japan, following a motion from Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri.
This agreement is expected to enhance the country’s defense and security programs while transforming disaster management collaboration between the two nations.
Zubiri referred to the efforts of both countries in formulating the RAA as a “game-changer” for the Philippines.
“I thank Senator Imee for her swift action on this agreement, which is indeed a game-changer. I am confident that this will strengthen our resilience and foster a partnership that prioritizes peace, stability, and the safety of our people,” Zubiri, a strong advocate for the RAA, said.
“Japan has always been a strategic partner, and this agreement significantly deepens that bond,” he added.
The RAA establishes a legal framework for cooperation between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF). This framework facilitates joint exercises, disaster response coordination, and logistical support, enhancing both nations’ capabilities to tackle security challenges and natural disasters.
Zubiri emphasized the Philippines’ strategic alignment with Japan in maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region, a crucial global trade hub.
“The RAA strengthens our shared commitment to uphold freedom of navigation and to counter security threats in this vital area,” Zubiri explained.
Additionally, he noted that the agreement addresses disaster preparedness, a pressing concern for both countries.
“Like the Philippines, Japan is one of the most disaster-prone nations in the world. Their expertise in disaster response, developed over decades, offers us valuable lessons,” Zubiri said.
“The deployment of their self-defense forces in disaster management has become a global benchmark. Under this agreement, we can closely collaborate to adapt those practices to meet our needs,” he further said.
The agreement has been the result of years of diplomatic efforts. Zubiri recalled his discussions with former Japanese Ambassador Koshikawa Kazuhiko and former Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to work towards realizing the agreement.
“This agreement has been a long time coming, forged through consistent dialogue and mutual trust,” he remarked.
Zubiri also highlighted the symbolic importance of former Prime Minister Kishida’s historic address before the Philippine Congress last year.
“That moment signified both nations’ commitment to deepen cooperation. The RAA is a testament to that pledge,” Zubiri noted.
During the Senate committee hearing, Zubiri spearheaded the campaign to secure the agreement’s approval, with Majority Leader Francis Tolentino supporting the motion. The agreement’s swift endorsement reflects the legislature’s recognition of its strategic importance.
“The RAA is truly a lifeline for disaster-prone nations like ours. It embodies our vision for a resilient Philippines, standing shoulder to shoulder with allies to address challenges, whether man-made or natural,” he emphasized.
“This marks a step towards a stronger Indo-Pacific alliance, ensuring that our region remains a beacon of peace, progress, and cooperation,” he added.
With committee approval secured, the RAA is now closer to ratification, paving the way for deeper ties between the Philippines and Japan
