President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday said Philippine-Japan relations are poised to reach the “highest tier” of diplomatic engagement as both nations move toward establishing a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
Speaking before members of the Japan-Philippines Parliamentary Friendship League (JPPFL) in Tokyo, Marcos said the planned elevation of ties reflects the “exceptional level of trust” between Manila and Tokyo amid evolving geopolitical and economic challenges.
“For the Philippines, and I believe for Japan as well, this moment calls not for retreat nor hesitation, but for deeper engagement with one another and with like-minded partners around the world,” Marcos said.
“It is in this context that the Philippines and Japan are moving to elevate our relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, the highest tier in our diplomatic framework, and a first for the Philippines,” he added.
Marcos said the move demonstrates the two nations’ shared commitment to deepen cooperation in addressing regional and global concerns.
He noted that the Philippines and Japan are commemorating the 70th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations this year, describing the milestone as a symbol of “reconciliation, trust, and shared purpose” built over seven decades.
He also acknowledged that “no other country has matched Japan in the scale and quality of its development assistance to the Philippines,” citing Tokyo’s long-term investments in human security across the country, especially in Mindanao.
Stronger collaboration
Marcos emphasized the importance of expanding the two nations’ collaboration in economic and maritime security, defense, and trade and investment.
He added that the Philippines looks forward to deepening cooperation on emerging sectors such as clean energy, digital transformation, critical minerals, artificial intelligence (AI), and space cooperation.
“As we navigate shifting currents, the friendship between the Philippines and Japan continues to evolve and to grow stronger,” Marcos said.
He said the two nations would continue to fortify their economic partnership through the bilateral Economic Partnership Agreement, which will mark its 20th anniversary in September, and the Philippines’ prospective accession to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership.
Marcos also acknowledged the role of the JPPFL in advancing bilateral ties, expressing gratitude to Japanese lawmakers for their “steadfast support” for the Philippines.
Marcos noted that the Philippines and Japan are commemorating the 70th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations this year, describing the milestone as a symbol of “reconciliation, trust, and shared purpose” built over seven decades.
“In this journey, the JPPFL has played a vital role. As parliamentarians, you help ensure that our democratic values are translated into laws and policies that serve our peoples and the broader region.”
Regional peace, prosperity
Marcos also welcomed Japan’s “more proactive” role in promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.
He reaffirmed the importance of ASEAN centrality and unity in “shaping a regional architecture that is open, inclusive, and rules-based.”
“We are most appreciative and encouraged by Japan’s active participation in deepening regional cooperation, particularly through its Dialogue Partnership with ASEAN,” Marcos, who serves as this year’s ASEAN chair, said.
He emphasized the importance of stronger partnerships amid geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and challenges to the rules-based international order.
“Japan’s contributions to regional security strengthen our collective peace and resilience across the region,” he said.
“Equally significant are Japan’s initiatives in advancing economic security, especially in strengthening supply chains, promoting technological innovation while ensuring that new advancements are used ethically and responsibly for the good of humanity, and safeguarding critical industries in an interconnected and interdependent global economy,” Marcos added.
On Thursday, Marcos is set to address a joint session of Japan’s National Diet and meet with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to discuss ways to further expand bilateral cooperation. (PNA)