The Philippines and Japan have signed a new defense logistics agreement aimed at strengthening military coordination and operational readiness amid rising regional security tensions in the Asia-Pacific.
Foreign Secretary Theresa Lazaro and Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi formalized the Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA) in Manila. The agreement allows the tax-free exchange of logistics supplies and services for joint military exercises, disaster response, and peacekeeping operations. It is expected to enhance interoperability and complement the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) signed in 2024, which permits the deployment of forces for joint training activities, including live-fire exercises.
In addition, Japan committed JPY 2.53 billion (USD 6.2 million) in official security and economic assistance. Of this, JPY 900 million (USD 2.3 million) under Japan’s Official Security Assistance (OSA) program will support modernization efforts of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, including the construction of boathouses and slipways for rigid-hulled inflatable boats to strengthen maritime surveillance capabilities.
The remaining JPY 1.63 billion (USD 4.1 million) will fund the establishment of a wireless broadband network in Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi to improve regional connectivity.
The agreement reinforces the Philippines–Japan strategic partnership and aligns with the broader trilateral cooperation framework with the United States, which focuses on maritime security, supply chain resilience, and clean energy collaboration in support of a “free and open Indo-Pacific.”
The ACSA requires ratification by Japan’s legislature before taking effect. Philippine officials confirmed that Senate ratification is not required on the Philippine side.
(Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer)
