Held at the Naval Operating Base in Subic, the ceremony reflected how a relationship rooted in post-war diplomacy has evolved into a multi-dimensional partnership spanning maritime security, trade, renewable energy, and people-to-people ties.

Anchored on the theme “Partners for a Sustainable Future,” Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Director for European Affairs Ferdinand Flores, said the milestone highlights both enduring friendship and forward-looking cooperation.

“What began as formal diplomatic engagement has grown into a multifaceted relationship spanning maritime cooperation, trade and investment, renewable energy, and people-to-people exchanges,” the DFA official said.

The DFA emphasized that shared principles continue to underpin bilateral ties.

“We have cultivated a partnership founded on shared values—respect for international law, commitment to multilateralism, and a common aspiration for peace, stability, and sustainable development.”

The maritime domain emerged as a central pillar of cooperation, particularly as both nations navigate climate and security challenges.

“As maritime nations, our countries share a deep connection to the seas… With the ever present challenges of climate change, our collaboration in offshore wind, energy efficiency, and environmental stewardship has taken on even greater significance,” Flores added.

Meanwhile, Danish Ambassador Franz-Michael Mellbin traced the partnership’s roots to the post-war global order, stressing its continued relevance.

“We were amongst the first wave of nations to recognise the Philippines… as founding members of the United Nations, coming together after the chaos of World War II to build a rules-based system,” Mellbin said.

He highlighted the maritime sector as a long-standing anchor of relations, particularly the role of Filipino seafarers in Danish shipping.

“Denmark is a great seafaring nation… and the Philippines is the largest crewing country in the world. That relationship has been a great mainstay of our relations.”

Mellbin also pointed to expanding engagement, including the planned deployment of a maritime attaché at the Danish Embassy in Manila to further strengthen cooperation in maritime and defense sectors.

On the Philippine side, Ambassador Pablito Mendoza reaffirmed shared commitments to multilateralism and sustainable development, noting the resilience of bilateral ties despite geographic distance.

The defense dimension was underscored by the choice of venue, with the Philippine Navy highlighting growing opportunities for deeper collaboration.

Representing Flag Officer in Command Vice Admiral Jose Ma Ambrosio Q Ezpeleta, Rear Admiral Juario Marayag emphasized that the partnership extends into emerging defense domains.

“We see prospects for collaboration on naval defense, cyber defense, and shipbuilding, as well as addressing threats to maritime security,” Marayag said.

He stressed the strategic importance of the maritime domain beyond geography.

“The maritime domain is more than a physical expanse, but a space where peace, stability, and freedom of navigation must be sustained… The security of our waters is inherently connected to the prosperity of our countries and people.”

Marayag added that Denmark’s strength in maritime innovation and sustainability serves as a benchmark for the Philippine Navy’s ongoing modernization.

“We find a natural partner in Denmark… as we pursue the continuing transformation of our naval forces and the furthering of our maritime capabilities.”

He said the milestone event paves the way for stronger naval engagement moving forward.

“Today’s endeavor serves as another headway for our nations and our navies to deepen engagements and guarantee safe and secure seas for the benefit of future generations.”

Beyond defense and policy, the DFA highlighted the Filipino community in Denmark as a “living bridge” that strengthens bilateral relations through enduring people-to-people ties.

Denmark was among the first countries to establish diplomatic relations with the Philippines in 1946, helping shape a partnership grounded in shared values and international cooperation.

The anniversary year will be marked by a series of engagements across both countries throughout 2026, including cultural exchanges, business initiatives, and high-level dialogues aimed at advancing maritime security, sustainability, and defense collaboration.

As the Philippines and Japan celebrate 70 years of diplomatic relations, leaders and experts underscored a profound and evolving commitment between the two nations—one that has moved beyond strategic choice and into urgent necessity amid today’s volatile global landscape.

Speaking at a high-level conference organized by the Stratbase Institute and the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines, officials emphasized that the enduring partnership between Manila and Tokyo now stands as a cornerstone for stability, resilience, and shared prosperity in an increasingly uncertain world.

Stratbase President and CEO Victor Andres “Dindo” Manhit said the current geopolitical climate is “not a normal moment,” calling for stronger, more decisive collaboration among trusted partners.

“In a region where the stakes continue to rise, the Philippines and Japan have both the opportunity and the responsibility to work together—to strengthen economic resilience, enhance security cooperation, and uphold the principles that keep our region stable and open,” Manhit said.

He stressed that deeper cooperation is now essential, particularly in safeguarding supply chains and reducing vulnerabilities as geopolitical tensions intensify across the Indo-Pacific and beyond.

Diplomatic ties between Tokyo and Manila were formally normalized on July 23, 1956 under then President Elpidio Quirino, marking a post-war reconciliation that has since evolved into one of the region’s most enduring and strategic partnerships.

Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya described the relationship as entering a “golden age,” with cooperation “deepening and extending steadily across all fields.”

“As maritime nations along vital sea lanes, allied with the United States and facing similar challenges to maritime order, our security cooperation is a natural necessity,” Endo said.

Japan remains the Philippines’ top source of official development assistance (ODA), supporting major infrastructure projects nationwide, while also emerging as a key defense partner. This includes the landmark Reciprocal Access Agreement signed in 2024, enabling joint military training and troop deployments.

Endo also highlighted expanding multilateral engagements, including trilateral cooperation with the United States and quadrilateral initiatives with Australia, as well as increased participation of Japan Self-Defense Forces in joint exercises such as Balikatan.

Beyond defense and infrastructure, both countries are exploring new frontiers in cooperation, including space, green transformation (GX), digital transformation (DX), and artificial intelligence.

Finance Secretary Frederick Go reaffirmed Manila’s commitment to deepening ties, noting that the relationship has matured into one between “like-minded nations working together to advance stability, resilience, and opportunity in our region.”

Former Supreme Court associate justice Antonio Carpio, for his part, underscored the strategic importance of Philippine-Japan cooperation in upholding a rules-based order in the West Philippine Sea.

“What will happen five to 10 years from now in the South China Sea depends on what we do today,” Carpio said. “Our objective is to ensure that the rules-based order applies—anchored on UNCLOS and reinforced by the arbitral award—so the international community can stand behind it.”

Japan is stepping up its security and economic support for the Philippines, pledging closer maritime cooperation, infrastructure assistance, and defense collaboration to uphold a rules-based Indo-Pacific amid rising tensions in the South China Sea.

Speaking at the symposium “Safeguarding the Maritime Domain for the Free and Open Indo-Pacific” in Makati City, Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya emphasized that peace and stability cannot be taken for granted and must be actively and collectively sustained.

The event was organized by the Japan Institute of International Affairs (JIIA) and the Stratbase Institute for Strategic and International Studies, bringing together policymakers, security experts, and stakeholders from Japan, the Philippines, the United States, and India. National Security Council Secretary Eduardo Año also attended.

Ambassador Endo highlighted that 2026 marks the 10th anniversary of the Free and Open Indo-Pacific initiative launched by former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Over the past decade, more countries have adopted their own Indo-Pacific strategies, and ASEAN has advanced the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific, reflecting a high degree of synergy with Japan’s initiatives.

He stressed the importance of deeper cooperation among like-minded partners in addressing evolving maritime challenges, emerging technologies, and strategic competition in the region. “To maintain a region rooted in freedom and the rule of law, partners must work together to uphold a free and open international order that benefits all countries, large and small alike,” he said.

The Philippines is a key strategic partner in Japan’s regional agenda. Endo highlighted the entry into force of the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) and the ongoing negotiations for the Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA), which deepen defense and security collaboration. Japan has also supported the Philippine Coast Guard through the provision of advanced vessels, including BRP Teresa Magbanua and BRP Melchora Aquino, and participated in Maritime Cooperative Activities with the Philippines and other allies.

Economic resilience is also central to Japan’s strategy in the region. Japan remains the largest provider of official development assistance to the Philippines, with around 1,600 Japanese companies operating in the country. Investments in infrastructure projects, such as the Metro Manila Subway Project and the Central Mindanao High Standard Highway, are designed to strengthen connectivity and supply chain stability. Japanese support for digital infrastructure, undersea cable networks, and cybersecurity initiatives further enhances the Philippines’ economic resilience.

Ambassador Endo also highlighted the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and the Philippines and noted the strong people-to-people ties, including the significant presence of Filipino seafarers on Japanese-operated vessels.

As geopolitical tensions continue to shape the Indo-Pacific, Japan will continue to work closely with the Philippines, ASEAN, the United States, and other like-minded partners to ensure the region remains free, open, and governed by international law.

Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi Toshimitsu and Philippine Secretary of Foreign Affairs Maria Theresa Lazaro signed the Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA) in Manila.

The agreement establishes a framework and settlement procedures allowing Japan’s Self-Defense Forces and the Armed Forces of the Philippines to provide logistical support to one another, including supplies and services, during joint activities and operations.

Officials said the ACSA will ensure the smooth and timely exchange of logistical support, enhance interoperability, and deepen defense ties between the two countries. The agreement is also expected to support broader efforts to promote peace and security in the region and the international community.

“Serving here has been the greatest honor of my forty years as a United States diplomat,” Carlson said, recalling the warmth and generosity she and her spouse, Aubrey, received from Filipinos across the country — from bustling cities to the most remote islands.

She emphasized that people-to-people ties remain the foundation of the enduring alliance between the United States and the Philippines. In 2024 alone, more than 1.3 million U.S. citizens visited the Philippines, strengthening bonds of family, friendship, and shared history.

Carlson also cited the continued service of 170 Peace Corps Volunteers nationwide, part of more than 9,500 volunteers who have served in the Philippines since 1961. She noted recent memoranda of understanding facilitated by the Philippine-American Educational Foundation — the world’s oldest continuously operating Fulbright Commission — aimed at advancing workforce development, particularly in the civil nuclear sector.

During her tenure, Carlson said the two countries worked closely in times of crisis, including coordinated disaster response efforts following Typhoons Tino, Uwan, and Crising. These efforts included 32 U.S. military airlift missions delivering food and humanitarian assistance to affected communities.

She highlighted broader cooperation in innovation and economic growth, including support for Filipino small businesses in the digital economy and the establishment of a new Regional Foreign Assistance section administering more than $313 million in aid. The assistance supports energy resilience, combats illegal fishing, improves health outcomes, and boosts private sector growth.

Carlson also underscored the launch of a trilateral initiative with Japan and the Philippines to catalyze high-impact infrastructure investment in the Luzon Economic Corridor, aimed at improving transportation, energy, and logistics efficiency across the country’s most populous region.

On security cooperation, Carlson reaffirmed the strength of the U.S.-Philippine alliance, noting that the two treaty allies planned more than 500 combined joint military activities annually over the past three years, including the largest-ever Balikatan exercise scheduled for 2025.

“Together, we have defended international law in the South China Sea and upheld the rights of Filipino fisherfolk,” she said. “Our alliance is truly ironclad, and our shared commitment has never been stronger.”

Carlson concluded by thanking the U.S. Embassy team and Philippine partners for their collaboration and friendship.

“To all of you here tonight — each of you has played a vital role in the success of our alliance,” she said, raising a toast. “Our friendship is strong, our partnership vibrant, and our future bright. Maraming, maraming salamat.”

Ten officers from the PCG Aviation Command (AVCOM) completed intensive training in Melbourne, Australia, conducted by the Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water (DCCEEW) and Australian drone manufacturer SYPAQ Systems. The program builds on the April 2025 handover of PHP36 million worth of SYPAQ fixed-wing drones and associated training. Designed as a train-the-trainer program, it combines classroom modules with hands-on field exercises, equipping PCG personnel to independently conduct future trainings and ensuring long-term operational capability.

From 24 to 28 November 2025, DCCEEW specialists travelled to Laguna to deliver a second phase of instruction to 30 additional PCG Aviation Command members. The training covered daytime and nighttime drone operations, advanced piloting skills, and maintenance procedures, further enhancing the PCG’s maritime domain awareness and response capacity.

Australia’s Ambassador to the Philippines, Marc Innes-Brown, emphasized that the program reflects Australia’s steadfast commitment to supporting the PCG’s modernisation and maritime security objectives, stating that Canberra is proud to stand with the PCG in safeguarding international law and vital waters.

PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil L. Gavan expressed appreciation for Australia’s continued support, highlighting that the training enhances the PCG’s ability to contribute to global maritime security and strengthens its role as a protector of the rules-based order at sea.

The initiative is part of Australia’s broader commitment to provide up to PHP110 million (AUD 3 million) in additional drones and other uncrewed maritime domain awareness technologies, announced in July 2025 on the ninth anniversary of the 2016 Arbitral Award. Australia’s civil maritime assistance to the Philippines also includes vessel remediation, postgraduate scholarships, operational equipment and training, marine environmental protection programs, and biannual Law of the Sea courses.

Bilateral cooperation continues to advance under the 2024 Memorandum of Understanding on Enhanced Maritime Cooperation, signed during President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s visit to Australia. The MoU seeks to accelerate joint efforts toward a peaceful, stable, and prosperous region grounded in respect for international law.

On October 27, 2025, Lt. Col. Nikanorsson was formally introduced to the leadership of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). He attended a distinguished gathering hosted by AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo S. Brawner, which brought together Foreign Armed Forces Attachés (FAFAs) and Military Attachés and Advisers (MAMAs). Accompanied by his wife, Lt. Col. Nikanorsson expressed his appreciation for the warm hospitality and cultural richness of the Philippines:

“During my stay, I gained a deeper understanding of the endeavors and challenges facing the Philippines and its Armed Forces. I look forward to working closely with my counterparts to further facilitate collaboration with Sweden.”

In addition to his engagements with the AFP, Lt. Col. Nikanorsson held meetings with Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan of the Philippine Coast Guard and senior officials from the Department of National Defense (DND), together with Ambassador of Sweden to the Philippines Anna Ferry, reinforcing Sweden’s commitment to broad-based defense dialogue and cooperation.

His visit followed the Second Joint Logistics Meeting held in Stockholm earlier in October, which brought together representatives from the DND, the Swedish Ministry of Defence, and the Ministry for Foreign Affairs. The meeting, also attended by Philippine Ambassador to Sweden Patrick Chuasoto, focused on strengthening capacity building and training programs, while exploring sustainable approaches to developing deterrence and defense capabilities. The discussions also included briefings on cybersecurity and emerging technologies at the Swedish Defence Research Agency, reflecting the growing importance of digital resilience in modern defense strategies.

The Philippine delegation also visited Saab’s facility in Linköping, where they tested the simulator for the JAS39 Gripen Multi-Role Fighter—a modern aircraft with long-term relevance for regional defense. They were introduced to a range of defense solutions for the Army, Navy, and Air Force from Saab and other Swedish providers, showcasing Sweden’s advanced defense technologies and integrated systems.

“Sweden values its growing partnership with the Philippines in defense and security. We are committed to supporting capacity building and sustainable cooperation in line with our Defense Policy Direction for the Indo-Pacific region.” said Ambassador Anna Ferry.

This cooperation was formalized through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in 2023, followed by an Implementing Arrangement (IA) in 2024 between the DND and the Swedish Ministry of Defence.

The Embassy of Sweden in Manila continues to actively support defense-related initiatives in the Philippines. In October, the Embassy participated as an observer in the Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP) Industry Forum, and attended the Navy Drone Warfare Summit in Subic, where Sweden’s leading defense company Saab showcased its Exploration Environment and other cutting-edge technologies.

These engagements reflect Sweden’s long-term commitment to building a trusted, strategic, and mutually beneficial defense partnership with the Philippines—anchored in shared values, innovation, and a vision for regional peace and security.

The Embassy of the Republic of Türkiye in Manila commemorated the 102nd Anniversary of the founding of the Republic of Türkiye with a dignified celebration that highlighted the enduring friendship, shared values, and growing cooperation between Türkiye and the Philippines.

In his address, H.E. Ambassador Niyazi Evren Akyol paid tribute to Türkiye’s remarkable journey as a modern and resilient republic, while underscoring the steady deepening of bilateral relations with the Philippines. He expressed sincere appreciation to the distinguished guests and partners who joined the commemoration, noting that as both nations celebrate 76 years of diplomatic relations, their partnership “is not merely diplomatic — it is deeply rooted in shared values, aspirations, and a mutual commitment to fostering peace and prosperity.”

Ambassador Akyol emphasized the many parallels between the Turkish and Filipino peoples — their devotion to family, strong faith, hospitality, and shared conviction that dialogue and cooperation are vital to national and global progress. “We share the same democratic values and a foreign policy that prioritizes peace, stability, and respect for international law,” he affirmed, reiterating Türkiye’s readiness to further collaborate with the Philippines in infrastructure development, energy, transportation, and defense.

He also highlighted Türkiye’s growing role as a trusted partner in the Philippines’ defense modernization efforts, reflecting mutual confidence and strategic cooperation amid evolving regional and global challenges. Ambassador Akyol congratulated the Philippines on its upcoming 2026 ASEAN Chairmanship and expressed optimism that Türkiye’s application for ASEAN Dialogue Partnership status will advance under the Philippines’ leadership much as its Sectoral Dialogue Partnership did in 2017.

Beyond political and economic cooperation, the Ambassador underscored that cultural understanding and people-to-people exchanges remain central to Türkiye–Philippines relations. Both nations, he said, are bound by compassion, generosity, and resilience, values that transcend geography and reinforce a genuine friendship between their peoples.

The event also featured a special message from President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, who paid tribute to Türkiye’s century-long legacy of independence and unity. The President reaffirmed Türkiye’s steadfast commitment to global peace, humanitarian action, and justice for all.

As Türkiye marks its 102nd Republic Day and the Philippines continues to play a vital role in regional affairs, both nations stand as enduring partners — united by mutual respect, shared aspirations, and a common vision for peace and prosperity.

The 20-minute discussion, held shortly after Prime Minister Takaichi assumed office, reaffirmed both nations’ commitment to further strengthen their strategic partnership and advance shared goals under a Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) vision.

President Marcos congratulated the Japanese leader on her new post and highlighted the importance of building on the strong foundation of the 70th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 2026.

Stronger Security Ties for Regional Stability

Both leaders welcomed the recent in-principle agreement on the Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA) and celebrated the entry into force of the Japan-Philippines Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) this September—an important milestone that enhances interoperability and rapid humanitarian response. The RAA’s first application, supporting logistics during the recent Cebu earthquake, showcased how defense cooperation now extends to real-world disaster assistance.

They also acknowledged the progress in Official Security Assistance (OSA) and agreed to continue strengthening the foundation for security cooperation that upholds peace and stability in the Philippines and the broader Indo-Pacific region.

Economic and Development Cooperation

Prime Minister Takaichi reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to supporting the Philippines’ economic resilience and infrastructure modernization, including food security initiatives such as the provision of post-harvest rice processing equipment.

President Marcos expressed deep appreciation for Japan’s continued Official Development Assistance (ODA) and emphasized his administration’s desire to expand collaboration beyond traditional aid, covering a wide range of strategic economic sectors.

Partnership in Energy and Climate Action

The leaders also recognized the signing of the Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC) on comprehensive energy partnership during the recent AZEC Ministerial Meeting, paving the way for joint progress in clean and civil nuclear energy initiatives. Prime Minister Takaichi expressed Japan’s intention to work closely with the Philippines toward the success of the AZEC Summit next year.

Looking Ahead: Shared Leadership and Global Challenges

As the Philippines prepares to assume the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2026, both leaders agreed to maintain close coordination on regional and global issues—including the South China Sea, North Korea’s missile and nuclear threats, the Myanmar crisis, and cross-border stability in the Cambodia-Thailand region.

The Japan-Philippines relationship, rooted in mutual respect and shared democratic values, continues to stand as a model partnership in Asia, strengthening not only bilateral ties but also the collective resilience of the Indo-Pacific community.