The Department of National Defense (DND) welcomed on Tuesday the approval of Senate Resolution No. 1248 on the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) between the Philippines and Japan.
In a statement, DND spokesperson Assistant Secretary Arsenio Andolong said the RAA will heighten the Philippines’ defense and security cooperation with Japan.
It will also enhance the interoperability between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Self-Defense Forces of Japan through the conduct of more in-depth practical cooperative activities and exercises.
“We extend our gratitude to His Excellency, President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., and our esteemed Senators led by Senate President Francis Escudero, Majority Floor Leader Senator Francis Tolentino and Foreign Relations Chairperson Senator Imee Marcos for ensuring the realization of this landmark Agreement,” Andolong said.
The RAA is set to be approved by the Japanese government’s National Diet, in accordance with Japan’s domestic legal process, to render it valid and binding upon both Manila and Tokyo.
“We look forward to the implementation of the RAA, which will enable our militaries to expand our defense cooperation and build trust and confidence amongst each other amid shared security challenges,” he added.
DND reiterated that pursuing collaborative partnerships with like-minded nations is essential as we continue to fortify our own defense capabilities.
The RAA with Japan is a testament to the Philippines’ unequivocal commitment to peace, security, and stability of the Indo-Pacific region, according to the DND.
