Philippines and Japan strengthen defense ties in response to China's maritime activities

The Philippines and Japan have agreed to enhance their defense cooperation amid rising concerns over China's maritime activities. They will establish a high-level dialogue to discuss defense exports and protect shared military information. Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani met in Manila to address security issues in the East and South China Seas. They plan to start discussions on deeper military cooperation and information sharing. Japan's defense ties with the Philippines have strengthened in recent years, especially after signing a reciprocal access agreement last July. This agreement allows troops and equipment from both countries to operate on each other's territory for training and disaster response.