House Speaker Martin Romualdez (right) meets with Japan-Philippines Parliamentary Friendship League (JPPFL) Chairman Moriyama Hiroshi in Japan last month. (Speaker's Office)

The signing of the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) between the Philippines and Japan represents a “crucial moment for enhanced defense cooperation", House Speaker Martin Romualdez said on Tuesday, July 9. 

“The signing of the RAA signifies a crucial moment in Philippine-Japan relations, heralding a new era of strengthened defense cooperation amid evolving regional geopolitical challenges,” Romualdez said in a statement. 

“The RAA highlights our shared commitment to regional stability and security, strengthening our defense capabilities, and reaffirming the Philippines’ strategic partnership with Japan, " he noted. 

The landmark agreement allows expanded participation of Japanese forces in joint military exercises such as the "Balikatan" drills with the Philippines and the United States (US). This marks a significant step forward in regional security efforts. 

Romualdez underscored the importance of the RAA in enhancing mutual defense capabilities and fostering deeper strategic ties between Manila and Tokyo. 

President Marcos , alongside key government officials from both nations, witnessed the ceremonial signing of the RAA by Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and Japanese Defense Minister Kihara Minoru in Malacañang on Monday. 

The RAA stemmed from commitments made during the inaugural Philippine-Japan Foreign and Defense Ministerial Meeting earlier this year. It highlights a concerted effort to deepen cooperation in defense and security matters. 

Formal negotiations, initiated in Tokyo last November under the leadership of the DND, were further supported by officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), and the Department of Justice (DOJ). 

"This agreement reflects our shared values of peace, stability, and prosperity in the region," Romualdez, Leyte's first district representative, pointed out. 

“It underscores the Philippines' proactive approach in addressing security challenges and promoting a rules-based international order,” the House chief added. 

The signing ceremony culminated in a joint commitment to implement the RAA effectively. This sets a foundation for expanded defense collaboration that is poised to contribute significantly to regional peace and stability.