President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi have agreed to elevate Philippines-Japan relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, marking a major milestone as the two countries commemorate 70 years of normalized diplomatic ties.
Speaking after his bilateral meeting with Takaichi at the Akasaka State House on Thursday, Marcos said the upgraded partnership reflects the “strength, depth, and breadth” of relations between Manila and Tokyo as both countries confront new regional and global challenges.
Marcos said the talks covered a wide range of priority areas, including economic cooperation, energy resilience, decarbonization, defense and security, maritime concerns, and future-oriented sectors.
The President said he and Takaichi also exchanged views on regional and global developments, including emerging challenges in the Indo-Pacific and the impact of tensions in the Middle East on energy security.
Marcos welcomed Japan’s support for the Philippines’ chairship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) this year, as well as Tokyo’s backing for ASEAN unity and centrality.
During the event, the two sides witnessed the signing of an agreement on the avoidance of double taxation, which Marcos said would help improve the business climate and encourage greater cross-border investment.
The Philippines and Japan also forged new arrangements to expand cooperation in agriculture and fisheries, improve access to quality health services, and sustain long-standing collaboration in human resource development.
Marcos said both governments would also pursue deeper cooperation in space development and applications, artificial intelligence, energy security, and supply chain resilience.
In the area of security, Marcos announced the start of negotiations for a General Security of Military Information Agreement, as well as talks on the delimitation of maritime borders.
He described the initiatives as important steps toward strengthening defense cooperation, building mutual trust, and upholding a rules-based maritime order.
“These substantive discussions with the Prime Minister have demonstrated the vigor with which the Philippines-Japan Comprehensive Strategic Partnership will proceed,” Marcos said, citing the two countries’ shared values of peace, diplomacy, and adherence to international law.
The President also noted his Imperial Audience with Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako, saying it reaffirmed the enduring friendship between the Filipino and Japanese peoples.
Marcos said he also met with Japanese business leaders and investors to discuss expanded cooperation in strategic sectors, including energy, agriculture, and emerging industries.
Earlier Thursday, Marcos addressed the National Diet of Japan, where he laid out a shared vision of “weaving the future together” through peace, prosperity, and possibilities.
Marcos thanked Takaichi for Japan’s hospitality and said the latest discussions reaffirmed the strength and “bright future” of Philippines-Japan relations.