Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday departed from Manila for a four-day state visit to Japan, where the Philippines is expected to secure new agreements aimed at strengthening economic and defense cooperation between the two nations. The presidential plane carrying Marcos took off from Villamor Air Base in Pasay City at 1:36 p.m.
According to Philippines News Agency, Marcos stated that the state visit occurs at a critical time as the Philippines and Japan continue to deepen their strategic partnership amid regional and global challenges. He noted that this trip marks his first state visit to Japan since his official and working visits to Tokyo and Osaka in 2023 and 2025. Marcos emphasized that this visit is part of a broader foreign policy agenda to forge closer political ties, enhance defense and security cooperation, and establish more enduring economic partnerships with major countries in the region.
The visit coincides with the commemoration of the normalization of diplomatic relations between Manila and Tokyo, established on July 23, 1956. Marcos is scheduled to meet Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi for comprehensive discussions on strengthening economic and security coordination. The leaders are expected to witness the signing and exchange of key agreements on trade and investment, along with announcing new initiatives in security and maritime cooperation.
Marcos expressed confidence in expanding security, economic, and development cooperation to enhance the national defense posture and uplift the living standards of Filipinos. He highlighted discussions on cooperation in agriculture, energy, decarbonization, maritime security, trade and investment, infrastructure, defense, space technology, and Mindanao development. The partnership with Japan supports key infrastructure projects under the Build Better More Program, including major rail and highway developments.
Marcos aims to harness the positive trajectory of relations with Japan, seeking to elevate the Strengthened Strategic Partnership. Japan, the Philippines' first and oldest strategic partner, remains a strong economic and development ally. It was the first to sign a bilateral free trade agreement with Manila through the Philippines-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement. Japan also plays a crucial role in defense and security cooperation, with agreements like the Reciprocal Access Agreement and the Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement enhancing military collaboration.
During the visit, Marcos plans to advance Philippine priorities and explore areas of convergence with Japan on various issues, including the West Philippine Sea, the ongoing Middle East conflict, ASEAN cooperation, and relations with the United States. He is also expected to meet with members of the Filipino community in Japan, acknowledging their contributions through their work abroad. Accompanied by his economic team and private sector representatives, Marcos will engage with Japanese business leaders to promote trade and investment opportunities in the Philippines.
