Manila, Philippines – During the visit of Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi Toshimitsu, the Philippines and Japan signed several key bilateral agreements, underscoring the deepening ties between the two countries.
The signing ceremony was led by Secretary of Foreign Affairs Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro and Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi Toshimitsu, held on Thursday.
Three agreements were finalized by Lazaro and Toshimitsu—focusing on strengthening security and defense cooperation between the two countries, and enhancing internet connectivity.
Coinciding with the celebration of the 70th anniversary of cooperation between the Philippines and Japan, the two foreign ministers signed the Agreement Concerning Reciprocal Provision of Supplies and Services between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Japan Self-Defense Forces.
This agreement is also known as the Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement, or ACSA.
The ACSA aims to establish clear guidelines for the reciprocal provision of supplies and services between the two countries, particularly in joint military training, operations, humanitarian assistance, and disaster response.
According to the Department of Foreign Affairs, the agreement will also serve as the logistical backbone for the implementation of the Reciprocal Access Agreement, or RAA.
The Philippines and Japan also signed the Official Security Assistance, or OSA, for Fiscal Year 2025.
Under the OSA, the Philippines will receive approximately ₱341 million, which will be used to enhance the capability of the Department of National Defense in protecting the country’s territory and in maintaining peace and security in the region.
Lastly, Japan granted aid to the Philippines for internet connectivity, amounting to ₱630 million, for the establishment of wireless internet connectivity in Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi.
Both Lazaro and Toshimitsu assured that coordination between the Philippines and Japan will continue, particularly in strengthening each country’s security and defense capabilities.
According to Secretary Lazaro, these bilateral agreements are a clear indication of the deep and growing cooperation between the Philippines and Japan.—Krizza Lopez, Eurotv News