Japan and Philippines strengthen defense ties in response to regional tensions

Japan and the Philippines have agreed to strengthen their defense ties amid concerns over China's aggressive actions in the region. They will discuss a new arrangement to protect shared military information. The agreement was made during a meeting in Manila between Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani and Philippine Defense Minister Gilberto Teodoro. Both countries aim to enhance operational cooperation, including joint military training and information-sharing. This development follows the Philippines' recent agreement with the U.S. to secure military intelligence. Japan and the Philippines signed a Reciprocal Access Agreement last year, allowing joint military exercises in each other's territories.