A new milestone in Japan-Philippines cooperation was marked with the signing and exchange of notes for an Open Radio Access Network (Open RAN) System on 12 February 2025, at the University of the Philippines (UP). Ambassador ENDO Kazuya and Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Enrique Manalo officiated the event, with UP Vice President for Digital Transformation Dr. Peter Sy also in attendance.

The grant, worth up to JPY 444 million, is part of Japan's Economic and Social Development Program. The project aims to strengthen the Philippines' information and telecommunications infrastructure by providing Open RAN-related equipment to UP. Open RAN is designed to create an open, interoperable, secure, and reliable ICT ecosystem in the country, with the goal of boosting competition in the telecommunications sector, lowering 5G network deployment costs, and driving innovation.

In his remarks at the ceremony, Ambassador Endo emphasized the significance of the Open RAN project in fostering stronger cooperation between Japan and the Philippines in the ICT sector. He noted that the project reflects Japan’s commitment to advancing regional development and its vision of a Free and Open Indo-Pacific. "This project on Open RAN manifests our commitment to stronger cooperation on information and communications technology," Endo stated.

Open RAN is seen as a game-changer in the telecommunications industry by enabling competition in network systems architecture. By allowing multiple vendors to participate and reducing reliance on a single provider, Open RAN can improve accessibility, lower costs, and promote innovation. The project at UP is expected to serve as a key milestone in the implementation of Open RAN, with the university hosting a dedicated laboratory to explore its possibilities.

Ambassador Endo also highlighted the strong academic ties between Japan and UP, calling it a fitting location for the initiative. He thanked the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) for their crucial role in the project, emphasizing their leadership in deepening Japan-Philippines cooperation in ICT.

This initiative aligns with discussions held at the Japan-US-Philippines Summit in April 2024, as well as subsequent meetings between Japan and the Philippines on enhancing bilateral ICT collaboration. Endo expressed confidence that the project would contribute to the realization of a "Free and Open Indo-Pacific" and bring about greater regional stability through technological innovation.

"I believe our joint venture is graced with fortunate timing. Prosperity founded on strategic collaboration is not only integral to regional development but also to our vision of a Free and Open Indo-Pacific," Endo added.

With the support of UP and DICT, the project is expected to lay the foundation for future innovations in the telecommunications sector, providing the Philippines with a competitive edge in the digital age. Ambassador Endo concluded his remarks with optimism, affirming that Japan-Philippine relations have grown closer and stronger, with technology and collaboration paving the way for a stable and prosperous future.

The signing ceremony for the Open RAN project underscores the deepening ties between Japan and the Philippines, marking another significant step toward technological and economic progress in the region.