Japan and the Philippines have increased cooperation on military readiness through a new agreement to allow their respective military forces to be stationed on each other’s territory and have committed to joint exercises.
They agreed to start negotiations for a defense pact called the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA), aiming to facilitate the presence of visiting forces and conduct joint military training activities.
….The RAA would enable the Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to train and operate in each other’s territories.
Takahashi Kosuke. “Japan, Philippines Agree to Intensify Defense Cooperation”. The Diplomat. November 3, 2023
The article notes that some are calling this a “quasi-alliance”. It may be surprising given World War II history of two countries. The New York Times notes that Japan is highly regarded now though:
In the Philippines, there is broad popular support for Japan’s involvement, despite its brutal occupation during World War II. Dindo Manhit, the president of Stratbase ADR, a research organization based in Manila, said the group’s surveys showed that Japan was the most trusted country in the Philippines, after the United States.
Sui-Lee Wee and Camille Elemia. “Japan and Philippines, Wary of China, Look to Expand Military Ties”. New York Times. November 3, 2023.
As the threats from the Chinese Communists continue, more countries will have to join together or be picked away one-by-one. Each new alliance makes it harder for the Chinazis to dominate.
