PH-Japan Reciprocal Access Agreement enters into force

The Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) between the Philippines and Japan officially entered into force on September 11, 2025, marking a significant military alliance.

The agreement reflects deepening ties rooted in shared values, mutual respect, and a common commitment to regional peace and stability, and aims to boost deterrence in the South China Sea amid Chinese assertiveness.

The RAA establishes a legal framework to facilitate mutual visits and cooperation between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF), including joint training, humanitarian missions, and disaster response operations.

It was ratified by the Philippine Senate in December 2024, while Japan's National Diet ratified it in early June.

Manila has sought to expand its web of alliances to bolster its efforts to push back against Beijing's sweeping claims in the South China Sea, entering into similar agreements with New Zealand, Australia and the US earlier.

Talks for visiting forces agreements with Canada and France are also underway.