Japan and Philippines Sign Historic Reciprocal Access Agreement

The Government of Japan and the Philippines entered into a reciprocal access agreement in September 2025, marking the first time Japanese military forces have been authorized to deploy in the Philippines since World War II. The defense pact is designed to deter China in the contested South China Sea by facilitating aircraft visits, logistical support, and joint military exercises.

Following the implementation of the pact, the two nations conducted a five-day joint military exercise in October. During this period, the forces delivered emergency relief to Cebu after a magnitude 6.9 earthquake. Japan also deployed the destroyer JS Onami to participate in joint drills led by the Philippines and the United States.

Philippine Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jnr indicated that the agreement serves as a template for expanding security cooperation, expressing interest in forging similar troop agreements with Canada, France, and New Zealand. However, the pact has increased risks of maritime friction with China, which has rejected international rulings regarding its claims to the South China Sea. In response to regional drills, the People's Liberation Army conducted routine patrols and exercises.