Japan, Philippines sign defence pacts as regional tensions escalate

The Philippines and Japan have deepened security ties by signing new defence deals in the midst of rising regional tensions, specifically with China.

The defence pact would allow the countries’ forces to exchange supplies and services, aiming to boost security cooperation.

Under the Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement, the both militaries would be entitled for the swift provision of supplies and services.

The recent defense pact comes months after a landmark Reciprocal Access Agreement in which US’ two closet allies, allowing them the deployment of forces on each other’s land.

Moreover, Tokyo and Manila also announced a $6 million Official Security Assistance in which Japan would fund the construction of storage buildings for rigid-hulled inflatable boats, aiming to boost Philippines naval capabilities.

The highly-anticipated security cooperation comes when Japan Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi is on a nine-day Middle East and Asia tour, with stays in Israel, the Palestinian territories, India, Qatar. The recent visit shows Tokyo’s growing strategic position in the world order.

These security pacts signal a paradigm shift in ties as the East Asian region is reeling from maritime tensions.

“The Secretary and I also confirmed the importance of the Japan, Philippines, US trilateral cooperation in the face of an increasingly severe strategic environment,” Mr Motegi said in a joint press conference with Ms Lazaro.

Japan is also locked in a diplomatic confrontation with China over the remarks on Taiwan in November, stating a Chinese attack on Taiwan could draw Japanese military intervention.

At the heart of tensions also lies the South China Sea claims as China is adamant on taking over the sea.

However, Japan supported the 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in the Hague which rejected China’s expansive claims over the South China Sea.

Lazaro said “Both nations recognise the value of promoting the rule of law, including the freedom of navigation and overflight.”

Given the escalating tensions in the region, Japan has been on the trajectory of boosting defence capabilities by entering into deals with the US and other regional countries.