Japan reflects on defense forces works in region as RAA nears signing

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 5, 2024): Japan reflects on defense forces works in region as RAA nears signing (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

MANILA – The Japanese Embassy in Manila reflected on the contributions of the Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) in the Philippines and the region, from boosting peace and security to its humanitarian works, including during the 2013 Typhoon Yolanda.

“Seventy years ago, Japan's Self-Defense Forces was established with a solemn oath, vowing to never repeat the tragedies of the past and to serve as a force for peace and independence of the country,” Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Kazuya Endo said at the 70th JSDF anniversary reception in Makati City.

“Over the course of their service, the JSDF has effectively solidified their role as a key stabilizer in the region.”

He cited the JSDF’s active participation in peacekeeping operations in Timor Leste and South Sudan, as well as its counter-piracy efforts that helped safeguard maritime routes for trade.

“Beyond its role in defense, the JSDF has also served as a lifesaver, evolving to encompass humanitarian assistance and disaster relief – a leading example was set during the Typhoon Yolanda in 2013,” he said.

After the onslaught of Yolanda (Haiyan) in the Philippines, the JSDF extended a prompt and efficient response, bringing much-needed relief to the typhoon victims.

Japan’s Ministry of Defense and the JSDF at that time deployed 1,180 personnel, three vessels, and 16 aircraft for medical assistance and relief supplies in the affected areas.

“Reflecting on the JSDF’s past achievements and present commitments, we envision a future where JSDF forges ahead as a pillar of stability and a beacon of peace in the region,” Endo said.

As negotiations for the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) nears conclusion, Endo said he looked forward to a closer security collaboration between Manila and Tokyo.

The Philippines is hoping the RAA would be signed at the 2+2 foreign and defense ministerial meeting on July 8.

“We look forward to the early conclusion of the RAA negotiations and expects to see further progress in promoting exchanges between the JSDF and the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” Endo said.

He did not elaborate but said the negotiation is “now close to conclusion.”

“Once concluded, the RAA will facilitate mutual visits between our forces to further promote our security cooperation,” he added.

The envoy noted that tensions in the South China and East China Seas create a “volatile environment” in the region.

Concerns, he said, also remain over North Korea's “provocative military posture,” Myanmar’s deteriorating situation, and the critical need to maintain stability across the Taiwan Strait.

“In this context, the Philippines’ role in maintaining regional stability and security is undoubtedly important,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1228346