President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Tuesday praised Japan for its enduring contributions to the Philippines, calling it a “reliable and steadfast partner” particularly in trade, development, and security.
Speaking during the Joint Leaders’ Statement, Marcos highlighted the Philippines-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (PJEPA) as a foundation for continued economic collaboration. “We continue to look for ways to strengthen our business ties with Japan to broaden economic opportunities for Filipinos,” he said.
The President described the alliance with Japan as a “gold standard,” emphasizing how Japanese assistance has been critical in areas like maritime security, infrastructure, climate resilience, digital transformation, agriculture, and energy. He also acknowledged Japan’s key role in the Mindanao peace process, noting that it helps boost economic competitiveness in the region.
Marcos further recognized Japan’s Official Security Assistance (OSA) to the Philippines, which has supported upgrades to the country’s security agencies. “Japan has been of great assistance in helping us achieve our aspiration for peace and friendship with all nations with strength and with integrity,” he added.
Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru, for his part, reaffirmed Japan’s strong commitment to cooperation with the Philippines, especially in defense and economic sectors. He cited the Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA) and discussions toward a security of information pact as new steps in strengthening ties.
Ishiba also expressed Japan’s support for the Philippines’ goal of achieving upper middle-income status, offering assistance in telecommunications, energy, mineral development, infrastructure, and disaster risk reduction.
Noting their shared background in agriculture, Ishiba said he and Marcos had a meaningful exchange on how both countries could expand cooperation in the sector.
Looking ahead, Ishiba emphasized the importance of working together to uphold a free and open Indo-Pacific, particularly in resisting coercive actions in the East and South China Seas. He also acknowledged concerns about the impacts of global tariff disputes and assured that Japan would listen carefully to Philippine perspectives to help find better economic solutions.
