Philippine Senate Approves Defense Pact with Japan, Strengthening Military Ties

The Reciprocal Access Agreement allows troop deployments and joint drills, but awaits ratification by Japan's legislature.

The Philippine Senate unanimously ratified the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) with Japan, enabling troop deployments and joint military exercises between the two nations.
The agreement aims to enhance interoperability and defense cooperation, addressing shared security concerns, particularly over China's regional assertiveness.
Japan's legislature must still ratify the pact before it can take full effect, with no timeline yet announced for the vote.
The RAA represents a significant step in the strategic partnership between the Philippines and Japan, which both maintain close ties with the United States.
China has not publicly commented on the agreement, which comes amidst tensions in the South China Sea and broader Indo-Pacific region.