PHILIPPINES RATIFIES HISTORIC RECIPROCAL ACCESS AGREEMENT WITH JAPAN

The Senate has approved the ratification of the RAA between the defense forces of the Philippines and Japan (Photo courtesy of Presidential Communications Office)

The Philippine Senate ratified a historic defense pact between the country and Japan which aims to strengthen the nation's security and reinforce regional partnerships. 

With 19 votes in favor, zero negative, and no abstention, Senate Resolution No. 1248 which concurs to the ratification of the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) between the Philippines and Japan, was approved on the third and final reading.

The RAA, the first of its kind that Japan has signed in Asia, will ease the entry of equipment and troops for combat training and disaster response, smoothing military cooperation between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Self-Defense Forces of Japan.

By enabling more in-depth practical military cooperation and exercises between both countries. The Agreement will expand the defense cooperation of the Philippines and Japan in the maritime domain amid shared security challenges.

“Ratifying the agreement further affirms the strategic partnership between the two countries and their mutual goal to enhance contribution to regional and international peace, security, and stability,” said the Senate in a statement.

The agreement specifically outlines the provisions on entry and departure, movement, access to facilities, and professional practice of the visiting force and civilian component for cooperative activities, as well as the rules governing the jurisdiction over the actions of the Visiting Force and Civilian Component.

Sen. Joel Villanueva said that the Senate concurrence to the Philippines-Japan RAA "further solidifies our commitment to promote regional and global peace and stability, and deepens our security and defense relationship."

"It will be remembered in history as one of the highlights of our diplomatic partnership, which now spans almost seven decades," he added.

The agreement was signed by the defense and foreign ministers of both nations in July, but the deal needed parliament’s approval to enter into force. Lawmakers in Tokyo will also need to vote through the treaty before it takes effect, Japan's embassy said

Both countries are longtime allies of the United States, which has been strengthening an arc of alliances to deter China's disputed territorial claims in the Pacific. 

Source: Philippine News Agency

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