Phl, Japan fortify defense ties

The defense partnership between the Philippines and Japan continues to grow stronger following a high-level meeting between the two countries’ top defense officials on Friday.

Philippine Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. met with Japanese Minister of Defense Nakatani Gen on the sidelines of the 18th ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) and the 11th ADMM Plus in Vientiane, Laos.

DND spokesperson Assistant Secretary Arsenio Andolong highlighted that the discussions reinforced the robust defense relationship between the two nations.

Teodoro expressed optimism for enhanced collaboration under Nakatani’s leadership.

“During the meeting, Secretary Teodoro pushed for deeper defense industry collaboration, including joint production and technology transfers, following the recent signing of the Self-Reliant Defense Posture Revitalization Act,” Andolong said.

The Philippine defense chief also emphasized the importance of working with Japan and other like-minded partners to uphold shared commitments to peace and security in the region.

“He invited Minister Nakatani to visit the Philippines next year, further solidifying the strong partnership between the two nations,” Andolong added.

Minister Nakatani, in turn, expressed confidence in the enduring strength of Philippine-Japan relations under Secretary Teodoro’s leadership.

The 18th ADMM, which began on November 20, carries the theme “ASEAN Together for Peace, Security, and Resilience.” Alongside formal meetings, ASEAN Defense Ministers participated in commemorative events marking the 50th anniversary of ASEAN-Australia Dialogue Relations and the 35th ASEAN-Republic of Korea Dialogue Relations.

This meeting underscores the shared vision and commitment of the Philippines and Japan to foster regional peace, security, and resilience amid evolving global challenges.