Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr is receiving an 'exceptional level of hospitality' during his four-day state visit to Japan, as Tokyo seeks to deepen defence ties with a key regional partner. The visit underscores shared anxieties over China's military rise and activities in Asia.
Marcos was greeted by Emperor Naruhito, who awarded him the Grand Cordon of the Supreme Order of the Chrysanthemum. On Thursday, he is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, with expectations of further strengthening defence and weapons cooperation. Addressing Japanese lawmakers, Marcos highlighted an 'exceptional level of trust' between the two nations.
Japan views the Philippines as a crucial defence partner and potential arms customer, particularly after lifting its ban on lethal weapons exports in April. Negotiations are underway for the sale of Abukuma-class destroyers and TC-90 naval training aircraft, with Philippine defence minister Gilberto Teodoro Jr also expressing interest in Type-88 surface-to-ship missiles.
Both countries are expected to formalise a military intelligence sharing pact, enhancing trilateral cooperation with the US. Japan has already provided five coastal surveillance radars to the Philippines. The visit also marks the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations, with the Philippines holding the rotating presidency of Asean this year.
Energy security is also on the agenda, with discussions on a multinational funding framework to help Southeast Asian nations stabilise oil reserves amid disruptions caused by the US-Israeli war against Iran. Japan aims to build a robust partnership that extends beyond Marcos's term, which ends in 2028, to mitigate potential shifts in Manila's China policy.
