Senate concurs with Phl-Japan Reciprocal Access Agreement

The Senate on Monday concurred with the ratification of the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) between the Philippines and Japan, paving the way for enhanced military cooperation and reciprocal access between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Japanese Self-Defense Forces (JSDF).

During a plenary session, Senator Imee Marcos, chair of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, expressed gratitude to her colleagues for their support of Senate Resolution 1248, which she authored. Marcos cited Article VII, Section 21 of the Philippine Constitution, emphasizing the requirement for Senate concurrence in international agreements.

The RAA, formally signed on 8 July, 2024, outlines provisions governing entry, departure, movement, and access to facilities for the visiting force and its civilian components. It also establishes rules for jurisdiction over actions conducted during cooperative activities.

Defense Secretary Gilberto "Gibo" Teodoro previously described the RAA as an "instrument of trust," aimed at strengthening defense relations and fostering stability in the Indo-Pacific region. Teodoro emphasized the agreement’s role in maintaining an open, inclusive, and rules-based international order grounded in international law.

The RAA is expected to deepen security and defense cooperation between the Philippines and Japan, particularly in maritime operations, while addressing shared security challenges. It will also facilitate joint military exercises and improve the interoperability of the AFP and JSDF.

The agreement received strong endorsements during a Senate Committee on Foreign Relations hearing on 25 November. Support came from various government agencies, including the Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of National Defense, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and Department of Justice.

Senate President Francis "Chiz" Escudero had earlier indicated that the Senate would prioritize the agreement before the 19th Congress adjourns for the Christmas break. The RAA, ratified by President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. on 5 November 2024, now awaits finalization to come into effect.