Japan-Philippines Boost Defense Ties
2 min read
JUNE 2,2025
SINGAPORE — Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. held high-level bilateral meetings with defense counterparts from Japan, Ukraine, and The Netherlands during the 22nd Shangri-La Dialogue—Asia’s premier security summit—held from May 30 to June 1 in Singapore.
The talks, held on the sidelines of the international defense forum organized by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), aimed to strengthen military cooperation, enhance regional security, and explore new areas of defense partnership.
🤝 Japan-Philippines Defense Talks: Deepening Military Exercises and Tech Collaboration
In his meeting with Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani, Secretary Teodoro welcomed Tokyo’s intent to increase participation in joint military exercises such as Balikatan and Kamandag, once the Philippines-Japan Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) is fully in force.
Both sides emphasized the importance of expanding collaboration in defense technology and equipment manufacturing, signaling a shared commitment to regional peace and stability.
Teodoro underscored the necessity of sustained bilateral and multilateral dialogues, highlighting that enduring security alliances must be built on mutual respect and shared democratic values.
Philippines-Ukraine Defense Ties: Technology, Trauma Recovery, and Diplomatic Presence
During talks with Ukrainian Deputy Minister of Defence Oleksandr Kozenko, the Philippines reaffirmed its support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity amid ongoing global conflict.
In a notable step forward, Ukraine announced the appointment of a defense attaché to Manila to deepen bilateral defense cooperation.
Teodoro expressed interest in learning from Ukraine’s defense technology advancements, while Ukraine looks to the Philippines for expertise in maritime disaster response and post-trauma recovery—two critical areas where Manila has made significant strides.
Both nations reiterated their commitment to international humanitarian law, with Ukraine vowing strict adherence to the Geneva Conventions and a strong interest in deepening defense cooperation in Southeast Asia.
Teodoro-Netherlands Talks: Defense Governance and Joint Military Activities
In his meeting with Dutch Minister of Defence Ruben Brekelmans, Secretary Teodoro conveyed the Philippines’ desire to adopt some of The Netherlands’ best practices in defense governance—especially in transparency, modernization, and accountability.
The Dutch side expressed strong support for the rules-based international order, offering openness to joint military engagements with the Philippines.
Both leaders extended formal invitations for future visits, solidifying mutual intent to expand long-term strategic defense ties.
🌐Japan-Philippines Forging Global Security Alliances for the Future
Secretary Teodoro’s participation in the Shangri-La Dialogue 2025 reflects the Philippines’ growing role in promoting peaceful and rules-based international relations in the Indo-Pacific and beyond. NOWTREND
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