President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has reaffirmed the Philippine commitment to deepen diplomatic, political, security, and defense ties with Japan, ahead of the 70th anniversary of bilateral relations in 2026.
“I look forward to continuing our Strengthened Strategic Partnership with Japan, a country that shares our ideals and aspirations of upholding democratic institutions and the rules-based international order,” Marcos Jr. said during a joint press conference with Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru on Tuesday in Malacañang.
The President said their meeting laid the groundwork for a “resonant and inspiring future” across various sectors, with a focus on delivering real benefits to citizens.
“Prime Minister Ishiba and I earlier discussed the many aspects of our diplomatic, political, security, and defense cooperation. We looked forward to a robust relationship, as our diplomatic relations enter their 70th year of normalization in the year 2026,” according to him.
Marcos Jr. emphasized the long-standing relationship between the two nations, built on reconciliation, mutual respect, and cooperation in trade, development, and defense. Japan is currently the Philippines’ second-largest economic partner.
He also pledged to enhance economic cooperation through the Philippines-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement and acknowledged Japan’s support for peace and development in Mindanao, as well as its role in modernizing Philippine defense through the Official Security Assistance program.IMT
