Philippines, Japan agree to up maritime security

President Benigno Aquino is greeted by Japan Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda prior to their talks at Noda's official residence in Tokyo Tuesday. AP

TOKYO—Japan and the Philippines have agreed to boost sea security amid China’s growing assertiveness over territorial rights and resources in the region.

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda and visiting Philippine President Benigno Aquino said Tuesday that the two Asian island nations both believe that unimpeded commerce and peace must be preserved in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea).

Japan and the Philippines each have separate territorial disputes involving China.

The two leaders also called for boosting economic ties. Tokyo promised better access for Filipino nurses to work as certified nurses and careworkers in Japan.

During his four-day Japan visit, Aquino visited tsunami-hit Ishinomaki in the north and will meet with Emperor Akihito before returning home on Wednesday.