Japan and the Philippines formalized a defense pact on Thursday, allowing for the tax-free exchange of essential supplies like ammunition, fuel, and food during joint training exercises. This agreement is designed to enhance deterrence against increasing actions by China in the region and improve preparedness for natural disasters.
The Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA) was signed in Manila by Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi and Philippine Foreign Secretary Theresa Lazaro. During the ceremony, Japan also committed new security and economic development aid to the Philippines, which includes funding for security boat shelters and expanding internet access in specific southern provinces.
Secretary Lazaro noted the shared objective of promoting the rule of law, including freedom of navigation and overflight, particularly in the South China Sea. Minister Motegi affirmed a mutual opposition to unilateral efforts to alter the status quo through force or coercion in the East and South China seas.
This military logistical agreement requires ratification by Japanese legislators before its implementation. It is intended to facilitate joint combat drills, coordinate responses to natural disasters, and support participation in United Nations peacekeeping operations.
Both nations previously signed the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) in mid-2024, which enables the deployment of forces to each other's territories for larger joint combat exercises, including live-fire drills. The RAA became effective in September. Discussions are ongoing for another agreement aimed at enhancing the security of shared confidential defense and military information.
The start of negotiations for the ACSA was jointly announced by Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and then-Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba in Manila in April of the previous year.
The South China Sea has seen increased interactions between Chinese and Philippine coast guard vessels under President Marcos. China asserts claims over the majority of the waterway, where it has expanded its coast guard and naval presence and constructed artificial island bases. Other claimants include Malaysia, Vietnam, Brunei, and Taiwan. In the East China Sea, China has regularly deployed coast guard vessels and aircraft into waters and airspace surrounding islands claimed by both Tokyo and Beijing. The United States has issued warnings regarding China's actions in these disputed waters against Japan and the Philippines.