Philippines optimistic on US-Japan summit for Indo-Pacific cooperation

The Philippines expressed optimism following the first meeting between US President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba on February 7, viewing it positively for a shared vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific.

In a statement on Tuesday, DFA spokesperson Ma. Teresita Daza said the successful summit in Washington, D.C., bodes well for regional cooperation and reaffirms commitments to trilateral partnership with economic resilience and security as key focus areas.

The meeting highlighted serious opposition to China's unlawful maritime claims and militarization activities in the South China Sea, with both leaders specifically addressing security concerns in the East and South China Seas.

Since entering a trilateral partnership in 2024, the three countries have been engaging in more combined naval training and exercises, focusing on enhancing domain awareness and humanitarian assistance.

In January 2025, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. noted substantial progress during his phone call with Ishiba and former US President Joe Biden, expressing confidence in further collaboration.

The DFA also outlined plans to expand cooperation in economic resilience and security, promoting inclusive growth and development, addressing climate change, and maritime cooperation.