Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. on Saturday welcomed the ratification of the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) by Japan’s National Diet.

Brawner called the RAA a “significant step in advancing bilateral defense cooperation and regional stability.”

He said it lays the foundation for joint training, humanitarian assistance, and disaster response operations between the AFP and the Japan Self-Defense Forces, enhancing interoperability and coordination against traditional and emerging security challenges.

“This is in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to strengthen strategic partnerships with like-minded countries,” Brawner added.

He also said the RAA reinforces the mutual dedication to a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific.

Brawner thanked Gen. Yoshihide Yoshida, Chief of Staff of the Joint Staff, for leading the ratification process.

“The AFP remains committed to defending national sovereignty while deepening cooperation with trusted partners,” he said.