MANILA: The Japanese government will strengthen its cooperation and maritime security support to the Philippines 'in response to the developments in the South China Sea (SCS)'. Visiting Japanese Foreign Minister Iwaya Takeshi made the announcement as he conveyed Japan's 'grave concerns' over repeated actions that heighten tensions in the SCS.
According to Philippines News Agency, Iwaya emphasized that the issue over the South China Sea is a legitimate concern for the international community due to its direct link to regional peace and stability. He stated that Japan strongly opposes any attempts to unilaterally change the status quo by force or to build up tension in the region, urging for an easing of tensions. This was articulated during a joint press conference following a bilateral meeting with Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo in Taguig City.
Iwaya confirmed Japan's commitment to continue its official security assistance (OSA) to enhance the Philippines' maritime security. This includes ongoing official development assistance (ODA) aimed at improving Philippine maritime safety capabilities. Tokyo has so far signed two OSAs with Manila, with the most recent being a PHP611 million grant to provide equipment for the Philippine Navy and Air Force.
Amid an 'increasingly severe strategic environment' in the region, Iwaya highlighted the importance of Japan's strategic partnership with Manila. He noted the significance of working in partnership with Southeast Asia, a region strategically located for maritime transport and recognized as the world's growth center.
The discussions between Iwaya and Manalo also addressed the need to maintain and strengthen momentum with the incoming Trump administration under the Philippine-Japan-US trilateral relations. Manalo emphasized the importance of collaborating with like-minded states to uphold a rules-based international order, expressing concerns about developments in both the South China Sea and the East China Sea.
In addition to maritime cooperation, Manalo expressed Manila's interest in improving trade and investment ties with Tokyo. He highlighted potential cooperation in the areas of ICT, economic resilience, de-risking, and diversification of the telecommunication industry. Manalo also mentioned the possibility of an early general review of the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement.
