Flags of the Philippines (left), Japan (Unsplash)

House Speaker Martin Romualdez has underscored the importance of Philippine-Japan relations amid present challenges in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

"The collaboration between the Philippines and Japan, as well as our alliance with other like-minded nations, is crucial in addressing the growing challenges we face in the region,” Romualdez said in a statement Monday, Dec. 18.

The Speaker accompanied President Marcos in Tokyo, Japan for the 50th ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation Commemorative Summit. Monday was the last day of the summit.

“It is evident that the complexities of the current geopolitical climate, particularly the aggressive actions of China in the South China Sea, require robust and cooperative solutions,” Romualdez added.

President Marcos had stressed the importance of stronger international alliances in maintaining peace and stability in the South China Sea and the wider Asian region.

Romualdez's statement came in light of the ongoing talks between the Philippines and Japan on a reciprocal access agreement for the deployment of military forces--a critical move amid escalating regional tensions.

In his remarks during his bilateral meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on the sidelines of the Commemorative Summit, Marcos said the Philippines and Japan will greatly benefit from the planned Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) in maintaining regional peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

Romualdez, Marcos' top ally in Philippine legislature, emphasized the need for sustained dialogue and peaceful negotiations among all parties involved.

"While we remain committed to defending our national interests and upholding our sovereign rights, it is equally imperative to pursue diplomatic avenues and peaceful engagements," he said.

The Speaker also highlighted the significance of the ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in July 2016, which invalidated China's expansive nine-dash line claims in the South China Sea.

"This ruling is an essential component of the legal framework governing our actions and stands as a testament to our commitment to international law and order," he remarked.

Romualdez called for greater international cooperation and unity in addressing the challenges in the South China Sea.

"The safety and prosperity of our region hinge on our ability to work together. The Philippines, under the leadership of President Marcos, remains steadfast in its resolve to promote regional stability, peace, and progress," the Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) president said.