Japan: Now a strategic security partner

President Marcos went on his first state visit to Japan last May 26-29, 2026, after his official and working visits to Tokyo and Osaka in 2023 and 2025, respectively.

The highlight of the visit was the elevation of our two countries’ bilateral ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. This points to a change in the essence and nature of the relationship. It is an acknowledgment that it has become broader and deeper. More importantly, it has become strategic. It looks toward the future–a roadmap for how much closer the ties are going to get, and the cooperation going to be stronger.

At its core, the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership is an affirmation that both countries are committed to work even more closely together on multiple fronts, given the shared and common challenges we face in the Indo-Pacific region.

Specifically, we are neighbors connected by the sea. Both countries are bent on upholding a rules-based order, freedom of navigation and overflight, and the peaceful settlement of disputes in accordance with international law.

In fact, the Philippines and Japan issued a joint statement reaffirming these principles and articulating their opposition to unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force or coercion. Japan reiterated its support for the 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Award.

The elevation is also an indication that Japan now sees itself differently in relation to the Philippines. From what used to be an economic and development partner, today Japan is also our key strategic security partner. This is a welcome evolution in the relationship, especially at a time when the regional security environment has become increasingly complex.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s reaffirmation of Japan’s support for the capacity-building of both the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine Coast Guard is a telling development. This includes continued cooperation in the maritime domain, support through Official Security Assistance, and discussions on the transfer of defense equipment. The two leaders also decided to commence negotiations on an agreement on the protection of classified military information, while another pact aims to strengthen the foundation for further cooperation, as well as the delimitation of maritime borders.

Beyond words and expressions of commitment, all these demonstrate Japan’s clear and sustained intention to contribute to the Philippines’ defense modernization and maritime security capabilities in concrete ways.

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And yet, Japan’s growing role as a strategic security partner should not be viewed separately from its long-standing role as an economic and development partner. During the President’s visit, there were other agreements forged and commitments made. There were, for instance, memoranda of understanding to advance smart cities, digital connectivity, and financial technology. The new double tax convention avoids double taxation and will enhance the business environment and promote greater cross-border investment.

This broader approach is visible in the emphasis placed on the Luzon Economic Corridor. Leaders from both countries reaffirmed their commitment to transforming the corridor into a world-class economic hub that strengthens global supply chains, accelerates economic development, and delivers mutual economic prosperity.

Mr. Marcos’ meeting with top Japanese conglomerates and financial institutions, along with the $3.4 billion worth of committed investments in the Philippines, are important signals not only of interest but also of concrete confidence in the country’s long-term economic potential.

The Philippines and Japan will also advance deliberations toward upgrading the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement and the Asean-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership.

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The combination of defense- and economic-related agreements during the state visit shows that Tokyo’s support for Manila is increasingly aimed at strengthening the Philippines’ overall resilience.

Defense cooperation helps address immediate security challenges, while deeper economic engagement strengthens the country’s infrastructure, supply chains, and long-term capacity. Taken together, these two pillars demonstrate that security and economic cooperation are no longer separate tracks, but mutually reinforcing dimensions of a more comprehensive Philippines-Japan partnership.

Japan’s willingness to support the Philippines across these multiple domains reflects the depth of trust and maturity that now define the relationship.

The increasing alignment of defense, security, economic, and development priorities makes our bilateral bonds richer, strengthen the Philippines’ overall resilience, and reinforces its strategic position in the Indo-Pacific.

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Dindo Manhit is the founder and CEO of Stratbase Group.