Bongbong Marcos set to discuss defense pact with Japan PM Kishida Fumio
MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and Japan Prime Minister Kishida Fumio are set to discuss the Reciprocal Access Agreement during the latter’s visit in the Philippines, said Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva.
In a briefing on Thursday , Villanueva told reporters that the Reciprocal Access Agreement would “simplify the processes” of Japan’s self-defense forces and the Philippine military to bring troops and equipment into each other’s countries.
Through this agreement, the conduct of joint drills would be much easier, noted the senator.
“We are expecting our leaders also to discuss cooperation because the Japanese government has what they call official security assistance. This is a new program that would provide defense equipment for free to like-minded partners such as the Philippines [and] Malaysia for 2023,” said Villanueva.
READ: Zubiri: PH Senate, House joint session set on Nov 4 for Japan’s Kishida
“We are interested in this and Japan is here providing coastal radar systems and patrol vessels to the Philippines to bolster our surveillance capabilities.That’s what we see. This is a big thing especially with the challenges we are facing in [the] West Philippine Sea,” he added.
Villanueva noted that he is glad that Kishida accepted the country’s invitation, adding that this will open the doors for strengthening the nations’ bilateral ties.
READ: Japanese PM Kishida, wife to visit PH for stronger ties
The senator likewise pointed out that this will give a “clear signal” to neighboring countries what being allies really means.
Prior to the joint Congress session scheduled at 11 a.m. on November 4, Villanueva said the Senate will call a session in order at 9 a.m. to pass the following resolutions:
- Resolution informing the House of Representatives that a quorum is present in the Senate to exercise its function for the first special session of the 2nd Regular Session of the 19th Congress in the Philippines
- Resolution inviting Japan Prime Minister Kishida to address the Congress
- Resolution providing for the Senate and House of Representatives to hold a special session to receive and hear the message of Japan Prime Minister Kishida
