Manila, Philippines – The Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) between the Philippines and Japan will formally enter in force on September 11, according to a statement from the Japanese Embassy in Manila on Tuesday.
In a ceremony, Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro and Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Endo Kazuya sealed the military deal.
Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. also attended the historic program, where he confirmed the completion of procedures to implement the RAA.
According to Lazaro, the agreement symbolizes Japan’s clear commitment to the Philippines towards more advanced defense capabilities, in support of Manila’s assertion of sovereignty and sovereign rights.
Japan, on their part, recognizes the Philippines as a strong ally in the Indo-Pacific region and shares the same views on freedom, democracy, and the rule of law.
Teodoro, also stressed that the agreement is an important aspect in maintaining peace and stability in the region.
Including the Philippines’ deterrence of China’s increasingly aggressive behavior in the West Philippine Sea.
President Bongbong Marcos ratified the RAA last year, the Senate subsequently approved it on December 16, and the Japanese Parliament approved the deal on June 6.
The DFA clarified that the establishment of a military base is not what is really included in the RAA.
But once it is implemented, Department of National Defense (DND) said, that Manila and Tokyo will still discuss the contents of the agreement, including access, logistics, and even the constitution.-Alvin Pelobello, Eurotv News