Phl, Japan reaffirm defense partnership with bilateral maritime exercise

The Philippine Navy and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) successfully held a joint maritime cooperative activity (MCA) in the South China Sea on 14 June 2025, reinforcing their defense partnership and commitment to maritime security in the region.

The patrol marked another milestone in the growing cooperation between the two nations as both reaffirmed their shared vision of a Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP).

“As trusted maritime partners, Japan and the Philippines remain committed to advancing the vision of a Free and Open Indo-Pacific,” a joint statement said, emphasizing their dedication to regional stability in line with international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

The activity comes amid heightened tensions in the South China Sea and underscores both countries' efforts to deepen defense ties and protect maritime rights in the region.

Japan reaffirmed its “steadfast partnership” with the Philippines as both nations continue to work closely to uphold peace, prosperity, and security across the Indo-Pacific.