Japan PM Ishiba concludes Manila visit, focuses on security ties

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba concluded a two-day official visit to Manila on Wednesday, focusing on security cooperation and economic ties with the Philippines.

Despite rainy conditions during his arrival on Tuesday, Ishiba was welcomed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his wife at Malacañang Palace after laying a wreath at Rizal Monument.

Discussions centered around defense collaboration, including the start of negotiations for an Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA) to enhance interoperability between Japanese Self-Defense Forces and Philippine Armed Forces.

Both leaders also agreed to explore the possibility of concluding a Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA), which would facilitate joint exercises and mutual visits by forces from both countries, pending approval from Japan's National Diet.

Security cooperation was highlighted as a top priority, with both nations aiming to oppose attempts to unilaterally change the status quo in international waters, particularly in the East and South China Seas.