The Philippines and Japan have began negotiations for a logistics agreement to be called the Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA). If approved, it will allow the Japan Self-Defense Forces and the Philippine military to exchange supplies and services.
According to Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya, there are also ongoing talks between the two countries regarding an information security agreement.
In April, President Marcos and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba announced their willingness to begin negotiations for ACSA.
Recently, a gathering was held aboard the JS Ise, a Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force vessel, for the 71st Anniversary of the Japan Self-Defense Forces. Attending were National Security Adviser Eduardo Año and AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., who both expressed support for deepening defense cooperation between the Philippines and Japan.
Ambassador Endo emphasized the strategic location of the Philippines and Japan as maritime nations and the importance of a deep defense partnership. He also identified the Reciprocal Access Agreement as an important step towards stronger ties.
