The Philippines and Japan have agreed to establish wireless broadband connectivity in Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi—collectively known as BaSulTa—as part of efforts to enhance digital access in the Sulu Archipelago.

The agreement was disclosed by Maria Theresa Lazaro, secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs, following the recent exchange of notes for Japan’s official security assistance to the Philippines.

Lazaro said the exchange of notes covers Japan’s official security assistance for Japanese fiscal year 2025, amounting to 200 million Japanese yen, or approximately P341 million, to support the Philippines’ efforts to modernize the capabilities of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

She added that a separate exchange of notes includes Japan’s grant aid worth 1.63 billion Japanese yen, or about P617 million, for the establishment of wireless broadband connectivity in Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi.

“This is in support of the enhancement of connectivity and digital access in the Sulu Archipelago,” Lazaro said.

According to the DFA chief, the agreements reflect the close and evolving collaboration between the Philippines and Japan under their strengthened strategic partnership.

“The signing of these agreements reflects the close and evolving collaboration between the Philippines and Japan under our strengthened strategic partnership and supports ongoing cooperation across priority areas of the relationship, as we mark the 70th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations,” she said.

Lazaro emphasized that Japan remains a vital strategic partner of the Philippines, with both countries bound by shared values of democracy, respect for the rule of law, and a common commitment to peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.