The Philippines is moving to further expand its bilateral defense cooperation with Japan, Malaysia, and Singapore as part of a broader push to strengthen regional security partnerships in the Indo-Pacific, the Department of National Defense said Saturday.
The initiative was discussed during separate engagements between the DND and defense officials from the three countries on the sidelines of the Japan Pacific Islands Defense Dialogue held earlier this week in Tokyo.
The Philippine delegation, led by Defense Assistant Secretary for International Affairs Marita Yoro, reviewed ongoing capacity-building programs and explored ways to deepen collaboration on shared security concerns, including maritime security, counter-terrorism, and humanitarian assistance and disaster response.
Manila already maintains close defense relations with Japan, Malaysia, and Singapore, with cooperation largely centered on safeguarding sea lanes, enhancing interoperability, and responding to natural disasters.
Japan, in particular, has taken a more prominent role in supporting Philippine defense modernization, recently signing a reciprocal access agreement that allows the two militaries to conduct joint activities more easily. Tokyo has also provided substantial equipment and infrastructure assistance aimed at boosting the Philippines’ defense capabilities.
Yoro’s participation in the JPIDD as an invited partner highlighted Manila’s growing profile in regional security discussions. According to the DND, the Philippines’ debut at the dialogue coincided with the 70th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Japan, as well as the launch of a new phase in their strategic partnership.
“The Philippines’ first participation in the JPIDD likewise represented a meaningful step in broadening the country’s defense partnerships and reinforcing its commitment to a rules-based international order,” the department said.
The third edition of the JPIDD, organized by the Japanese Ministry of Defense, was held from February 22 to 24 and marked the first time the Philippines joined the multilateral defense dialogue.