DFA lauds Senate鈥檚 ratification of PH-Japan RAA
Inquirer file photo
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) welcomed on Tuesday the Senate’s concurrence with the ratification of the Philippines-Japan Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA).
In a statement, the DFA said such concurrence would further strengthen the ties between the Philippines and Japan.
“The prospective implementation of the Philippines-Japan RAA will significantly enhance the already robust security cooperation between the Philippines and Japan amidst the increasingly complex regional security environment,” said the DFA.
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“The RAA becomes a natural progression of the cooperation between the Philippine Armed Forces and the Japan Self-Defense Force from Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief activities, to other aspects of capability and capacity-building through the RAA,” it added.
Article continues after this advertisementThe agency then noted that amid the prevailing challenges in terms of security in the region, an RAA between the two nations will “firmly contribute towards maintaining a secure and peaceful Asia-Pacific.”
Article continues after this advertisementWith 19 votes in favor, zero negative, and no abstention, Senate Resolution No. 1248 was approved on third and final reading during the upper chamber’s plenary session held Monday.
Senate President Francis Escudero said the measure which concerns the agreement between the Philippines and Japan regarding the facilitation of reciprocal access and cooperation between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Self-Defense Forces of Japan—is now deemed ratified.
“Ratifying the agreement further affirms the strategic partnership between the two countries and their mutual goal to enhance contribution to regional and international peace, security and stability,” said the Senate in a statement also issued Monday.
President Marcos ratified the agreement on November 5, 2024 and has submitted it to the Senate for concurrence in accordance with the Philippine Constitution.
The agreement specifically outlines the provisions on entry and departure, movement, access to facilities, and professional practice of the visiting force and civilian component for the purpose of cooperative activities, as well as the rules governing the jurisdiction over the actions of the Visiting Force and Civilian Component.
