BREAKING: Japan Prime Minister Ishiba begins two-day visit to strengthen ties with PH
Metro Manila, Philippines - Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba arrived on Monday for a two-day official visit to strengthen what both countries described as a relationship entering a “golden age.”
Malacañang said Ishiba and his wife, Yoshiko, will be welcomed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Marcos in official ceremonies in Malacañan Palace.
The Palace said the meeting between Marcos and Ishiba will focus on deepening cooperation in key areas, including the economy, development, politics, defense, and people-to-people exchanges.
The two leaders are also expected to exchange views on regional and global issues and explore new pathways to promote peace and stability under the “strengthened strategic partnership” between Manila and Tokyo.
Marcos and Ishiba last met during the ASEAN summits in Vientiane, Laos, in October 2024.
“Against the backdrop of the latest global development of trade issues, it is important for us to exchange views on this matter accordingly. I believe that Japan and the Philippines, both sharing the same values, should continue to cooperate for strengthening the global economy based on the multilateral trading system,” said Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Endo Kazuya previously said in a statement.
Expanding security cooperation
Japan has become one of the Philippines’ key defense partners amid rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific, particularly in the West Philippine Sea. Over the past years, Tokyo has provided patrol vessels, defense equipment, and capacity-building assistance to help the Philippine Coast Guard and Armed Forces strengthen their maritime capabilities.
Last year, the two countries signed the Reciprocal Access Agreement, a landmark pact allowing easier movement of troops for training and joint exercises. Talks are also ongoing for deeper defense technology cooperation, as both Manila and Tokyo seek to enhance regional security alongside allies like the United States and Australia.
Officials say security issues, including maritime domain awareness and defense modernization, will be major points of discussion during Ishiba’s visit.
Strengthening economic and trade ties
Japan remains one of the Philippines’ largest trading partners and sources of investments. It is the country’s second-largest export market and a top partner in infrastructure development under Manila’s “Build Better More” program.
Key projects, including railway modernization, bridges, and flood control systems across the Philippines, have been made possible through Japanese official development assistance loans and grants.
During the visit, both leaders are expected to discuss new areas of economic collaboration, particularly in technology, green energy, digital transformation, and support for micro, small, and medium enterprises.
