TOKYO, Japan – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. highlighted the importance of a stronger Philippines–Japan partnership, saying it plays a crucial role in promoting peace, stability, and economic growth in the Indo-Pacific region.
During a state banquet hosted by Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako at Tokyo’s Imperial Palace on Wednesday, Marcos reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to deepen its strategic ties with Japan.
He emphasized support for a rules-based international order, noting that both countries, as maritime democracies, share a duty to uphold international law and ensure long-term regional stability.
Marcos said Manila intends to further expand cooperation with Tokyo, stressing that the partnership should serve as a “force for good” not only for both nations but also for the wider Indo-Pacific community.
He described the more than seven-decade relationship between the Philippines and Japan as a forward-looking alliance built on trust, mutual respect, and shared aspirations for peace and development.
According to the President, bilateral cooperation has grown significantly in recent years, extending into maritime security, humanitarian assistance, energy, food security, space exploration, digital innovation, climate action, and other emerging sectors.
He also thanked Japan for its continued support to the Philippines, noting that strong cultural and people-to-people exchanges have further strengthened bilateral ties, including the contributions of Filipinos living and working in Japan.
Marcos said the friendship between the two countries has been shaped not only by official agreements but also by ordinary citizens who have consistently chosen cooperation and understanding.
He added that Japan has remained a dependable partner of the Philippines through both challenges and successes, expressing confidence that the relationship will continue to grow stronger in the future.
ia/xf
