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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Philippines-Japan defense logistics pact to take effect in August

Philippines-Japan defense logistics pact to take effect in August

Published Jul 24, 2026 04:06 pm
Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi Toshimitsu and Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro holds a meeting on the sidelines of the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Manila on July 23, 2026. (Embassy of Japan in Manila)
Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi Toshimitsu and Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro holds a meeting on the sidelines of the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Manila on July 23, 2026. (Embassy of Japan in Manila)
Japan and the Philippines formally exchanged diplomatic notes for the defense logistics agreement to enter into force next month.
The two countries exchanged diplomatic notes for the entry into force of an agreement concerning the reciprocal provision of supplies and services between the Self-Defense Forces of Japan and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)—Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA).
"With this exchange of notes, the agreement will enter into force on August 22, 2026," the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines said.
The agreement establishes a framework, including settlement procedures for the reciprocal provision of supplies and services between the two countries' defense forces.
"The agreement will facilitate the smooth and prompt provision of supplies and services between the Self-Defense Forces of Japan and the Armed Forces of the Philippines," the embassy said.
It will also promote closer cooperation between the Self-Defense Forces of Japan and the AFP, serving Japan’s security and enabling Japan to actively contribute to peace and security in the international community.
It was signed on Jan. 15, 2026, in Manila by Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi Toshimitsu and Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro.

'Continue coordinating closely'

Motegi and Lazaro met on the sidelines of the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Manila on Thursday, July 23, where they affirmed their commitment to continue coordinating closely.
During their meeting, they welcomed the exchange of diplomatic notes for the ACSA's entry into force, confirming "that they would work together to ensure peace and stability in the region, drawing on Japan’s assistance through Official Development Assistance (ODA) and Official Security Assistance (OSA)."
The two officials also underscored that the agreement will strengthen the effectiveness and sustainability of the two countries’ joint activities, especially in humanitarian assistance and disaster response, complementing the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA).
They also exchanged views on future cooperation between Japan and ASEAN as well as regional and international affairs, such as issues concerning the South China Sea.
They likewise "confirmed that they would continue coordinating closely," the embassy said.
The two foreign ministers also exchanged views on promoting cooperation in the economic field and other matters.
Motegi expressed his respect for Lazaro's chairmanship at the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meetings and stated that Japan intends to strengthen the bilateral relationship under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership "in a sustained and multilayered manner, referring to the importance of realizing an updated Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP)."
Their meeting was also held on the very day marking the 70th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between Japan and the Philippines.
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