Japan PM to visit PH for defense, security talks

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba —Jiji Press
MANILA, Philippines — Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru is making a two-day official visit to the Philippines to hold a series of high-level talks with government officials.
The Presidential Communications Office said on Wednesday that President Marcos and first lady Liza Marcos will welcome Ishiba and his spouse, Ishiba Yoshiko, at the Palace on April 29.
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The two leaders are expected to discuss defense and security collaboration, particularly under the Reciprocal Access Agreement signed in July 2024, which facilitates joint military exercises and humanitarian missions.
They will also tackle regional security concerns, especially regarding China’s assertive actions in the South China Sea.