Time to redouble efforts to address regional threats – Japan ambassador

Metro Manila, Philippines - Japan has called for close cooperation with the Philippines to tackle regional security threats even as both nations face maritime issues.

“The security landscape, both regionally and globally, has grown increasingly complex and unpredictable, marked by a series of turning points. China’s rapid and opaque military build-up and repeated unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force in the East and South China Seas,” said Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Endo Kazuya during a forum in Makati City on Friday, Jan. 10.

Japan is at odds with China over a territorial dispute in the East China Sea, similar to the Philippines’ conflict with the East Asian power in the South China Sea.

He noted Japan’s consistent support for the Philippines, particularly in the West Philippine Sea.

“The South China Sea remains a flashpoint of heightened tensions. Japan supports the position of the Philippines, which has demonstrated its commitment to a peaceful resolution of disputes in the West Philippine Sea in accordance with UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea) and the 2016 Arbitral Award,” Endo said.

He noted the urgency of addressing security challenges, calling for a renewed effort to strengthen regional deterrence.

“To face these severe and complex security challenges, we must redouble our current efforts. Regional deterrence has never been more critical to ensuring peace and stability in the region,” he added.

Endo highlighted the momentum generated by the trilateral leaders’ summit in the U.S. last year, which has boosted relations between Manila, Tokyo, and Washington.

Japan’s support for the Philippines extends beyond diplomatic efforts. For two consecutive years, the Philippines has received official security assistance (OSA) from Japan, which included the provision of advanced defense equipment.

“Japan will continue to support the Philippine Navy by providing advanced identification systems for C-90 aircraft previously transferred from Japan. Additionally, we will supply equipment related to the air surveillance radar system for the Philippine Air Force. These initiatives represent seamless support through defense equipment transfers and OSA,” the ambassador said.

He pointed out Japan’s participation in multilateral maritime cooperative activities in the West Philippine Sea, reinforcing its commitment to regional security.

Endo expressed optimism about the upcoming implementation of the Reciprocal Access Agreement between Japan and the Philippines, a historic security pact that is expected to come into force this year.

“The relationship between Japan and the Philippines is in a golden age, but we are determined to further unlock its full potential,” he said.