Japan and Philippines Forge Closer Ties Amidst China’s Aggression

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Japan’s Prime Minister, Kishida Fumio, showcased enthusiasm during his visit to the BRP Teresa Magbanua, the largest vessel in the Philippine coastguard’s fleet, reflecting the growing collaboration between Japan and the Philippines. Despite the historical context of the ship’s name tied to resistance against Japanese occupiers during World War II, Japan has been aiding the Philippines in strengthening its defenses. The vessel, constructed by Japanese shipbuilders with financial support from Japan’s government, symbolizes the deepening security ties between the two nations.

During Kishida’s Manila visit on November 3rd and 4th, he pledged further assistance to enhance the Philippines’ defense capabilities. Both leaders, Kishida and his Philippine counterpart Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, agreed to initiate formal discussions on a new pact aimed at improving bilateral security cooperation. In his historic address to the Philippine Congress, Kishida proclaimed the advent of a “golden age” in the relationship between the two countries.

The tightening bond between the Philippines and Japan is influenced by several factors, primarily their shared concerns about China’s expansionism. Both nations find themselves on the front lines of resisting Chinese aggression, situated within the “First Island Chain,” an arc of archipelagoes from Japan to Malaysia acting as a barrier between China and the Pacific Ocean. The Philippines and Japan face challenges from Chinese forces in the South China Sea and East China Sea, respectively, and share growing apprehensions about China’s actions towards Taiwan.

Another significant factor is the political landscape, with Marcos assuming power after the 2022 election. Unlike his predecessor Rodrigo Duterte, who harbored anti-American sentiments, Marcos has revived a deal granting the United States access to bases in the Philippines, paving the way for increased trilateral cooperation with Japan. The three countries conducted joint coastguard drills in June, and their national security advisers agreed to regular three-way talks.

Japan’s evolving defense policies, allowing a more active role in regional security, have benefited the Philippines. Since 2016, Japan has provided a dozen ships to the Philippine Coastguard, including the BRP Teresa Magbanua. Mitsubishi Electric, a Japanese company, recently delivered air surveillance radars—the first overseas arms sale by Japan since 2014. The Philippines is set to receive aid through a new Japanese program, “Official Security Assistance,” consisting of $4 million worth of coastal surveillance radars, aiding in countering China’s grey-zone activities.

The ongoing negotiations for a Reciprocal Access Agreement signify a step towards solidifying the countries’ ties. While not constituting a formal alliance, the agreement would establish a legal framework for their armed forces to operate in each other’s territories, fostering more frequent joint and realistic training. Japan has similar agreements with Australia and Britain, and the Philippines would be its first such partner in Southeast Asia.

Chinese authorities, as evidenced by a Global Times article, have expressed displeasure at the burgeoning Japanese-Philippine security cooperation, interpreting it as an attempt to suppress China. This reaction underscores the geopolitical significance of the developing partnership between Japan and the Philippines in the face of regional challenges.