The Japanese government intends to supply the Philippines with surveillance radars as part of its official security assistance (OSA) program. This initiative represents Japan's commitment to bolstering security measures and cooperation with the Philippines. The provision of surveillance radars is expected to enhance the Philippines' capabilities for monitoring and safeguarding its territorial interests. This collaboration underscores Japan's role in contributing to the security infrastructure of its regional partners.

The Philippines is expected to be the first country to benefit from Japan's recently introduced official security assistance (OSA) program, which came into effect in the fiscal year 2023.

During his upcoming visit to the Southeast Asian nation, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is set to affirm this plan in discussions with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. This move signifies a significant step in strengthening security cooperation between Japan and the Philippines.

Japan's provision of security assistance coincides with a growing territorial conflict in the South China Sea, which has escalated tensions between the Philippines and China and resulted in a series of ship collisions.

The official security assistance (OSA) program, established with the aim of enhancing the military capacities of allied nations, entails the supply of defense equipment and the promotion of infrastructure development.

In the ongoing fiscal year until March 2024, Japan intends to extend support through the OSA program to countries such as Malaysia, Bangladesh, and Fiji, further underlining its commitment to bolstering the defense and security capabilities of like-minded nations.

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's upcoming three-day visit to the Philippines and Malaysia, concluding on, holds historical significance as he is poised to be the first Japanese prime minister to address the Philippine Congress. During this momentous occasion, he intends to unveil Japan's forward-looking diplomatic strategy for Southeast Asia, marking a pivotal moment in Japan's regional engagement.

In addition to his Philippines visit, Kishida will also hold discussions with his Malaysian counterpart, Anwar Ibrahim. This bilateral meeting underscores Japan's commitment to fostering strong diplomatic ties and collaborative efforts within Southeast Asia, reflecting the nation's evolving regional diplomacy.

"While drastically strengthening Japan's own defenses, it's essential to improve the security and deterrent capabilities of like-minded countries," given Japan's severe security situation, Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno told a news conference. Located on a strategically important sea lane, the Philippines is "our important security partner," he said.

During their forthcoming meeting, Prime Minister Kishida and President Marcos are anticipated to formalize their intentions to initiate discussions regarding a reciprocal access agreement between Japan and the Philippines. This agreement aims to facilitate the ease of visits by the Japanese Self-Defense Forces and the Philippine military to each other's respective countries. This collaborative initiative signifies a significant step in reinforcing bilateral defense cooperation, further enhancing the diplomatic relations between the two nations.

Image source: Japan Times