Japan woos Philippine leader during state visit with arms sales and China in mind

Key Points:

• Japan and the Philippines have upgraded their diplomatic ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and agreed to accelerate talks on Japanese weapons sales and military intelligence sharing amid concerns over China's military activities in Asia.
• Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. received high-level hospitality in Japan, including a meeting with Emperor Naruhito and receiving the Grand Cordon of the Supreme Order of the Chrysanthemum, signaling Japan's view of the Philippines as a key defense partner and arms customer.
• The two countries plan to negotiate the sale of Abukuma-class destroyers, TC-90 training aircraft, and possibly Type-88 surface-to-ship missiles, marking the Philippines as Japan's first major arms customer since Japan lifted its ban on lethal weapons exports in April 2024.
• Japan and the Philippines agreed to begin formal talks on a military intelligence sharing pact to enhance trilateral cooperation with the U.S. and improve regional security amid rising tensions in the East and South China Seas.
• Beyond defense, the leaders agreed to deepen cooperation in trade, energy security, and supply chain resilience, including a Japan-led multinational funding framework to help Southeast Asian countries stabilize oil reserves affected by disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.