Tokyo: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday underscored the importance of upholding international law, maritime security, and a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific during his historic address before Japan's National Diet.

According to Philippines News Agency, during his four-day state visit, Marcos described the Philippines and Japan as 'maritime democracies' committed to keeping regional seas 'open, secure, and governed by rules, not by force.' Both countries face territorial disputes with China, which has been increasing its activities in the South China Sea, a resource-rich area it claims entirely, including features within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone. China also claims the Japanese-controlled Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea.

In his speech, Marcos highlighted the evolution of Philippine-Japan relations from post-war reconciliation into a strategic partnership rooted in 'deep mutual trust.' He recalled how former President Elpidio Quirino pursued reconciliation with Japan after World War II, leading to the normalization of diplomatic relations in 1956. This year marks the 70th anniversary of those normalized relations.

The President also emphasized the expanding scope of bilateral cooperation in areas such as security, maritime and defense cooperation, resilient supply chains, artificial intelligence, space technology, clean energy, and digital innovation. He noted Japan's role as one of the Philippines' leading economic partners and largest providers of development assistance.

Marcos reaffirmed the Philippines' commitment to the peaceful settlement of disputes under international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). He mentioned the upcoming 10th anniversary of the Arbitral Award on the South China Sea, which underscores the Philippines' resolve to resolve disputes peacefully.

Additionally, Marcos acknowledged the contributions of nearly 360,000 Filipinos working in Japan in sectors such as healthcare, education, manufacturing, agriculture, and services. Philippine Ambassador to Japan Mylene Garcia-Albano noted that addressing the National Diet is a rare privilege for select foreign leaders, with Marcos being the fourth Philippine leader to do so, following Quirino, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, and the late Benigno Aquino.