Japan and Philippines Sign Key Military Logistics Pact

Japan and the Philippines have signed a landmark military logistics agreement, further cementing a security partnership designed to counter China's growing assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific. The "Reciprocal Access Agreement," finalized in Manila on Friday, allows for the easier exchange of supplies, equipment, and personnel between the Japanese Self-Defense Forces and the Philippine military. This pact is seen as a critical step in creating a "quasi-alliance" network in Asia that operates alongside US treaty commitments.

Beijing has reacted sharply to the signing, accusing Japan of reviving militarism and destabilizing the region. In a counter-move aimed at soft-power influence, China simultaneously announced a visa-free entry policy for Filipino citizens, attempting to maintain economic and diplomatic leverage. The dual developments highlight the complex tug-of-war for influence in Southeast Asia, where nations are increasingly strengthening defense ties with Tokyo and Washington while trying to maintain economic relationships with their largest trading partner, China.