MANILA, Philippines – Japan reiterated its commitment to advancing the vision of a free and open Indo Pacific, after the successful undertaking of the Bilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) on 14 June 2025 in the South China Sea.
"The activity underscores our shared dedication to fostering regional stability and maritime security in full accordance with international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)," the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines said on Monday.
The joint exercises were participated by the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) and the Philippine Navy (PN).
Meanwhile, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) believed that the maritime drill underscored the operationalization of the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA)—an accord that lays the groundwork for increased joint training, humanitarian assistance, and disaster response (HADR) initiatives between the AFP and JSDF.
“This activity highlights the deepening trust and coordination between the two allies as they respond to traditional and emerging security challenges in the region,” the AFP said in a news release.
According to the AFP, the new phase of defense cooperation between Japan and the Philippines after the conduct of the MCA marked one of the first major joint activities following the recently ratified RAA between the two nations last Friday, June 6.
After the ratification, the next phase is the “crafting of its implementing rules and regulations (IRR)", the AFP confirmed in a separate interview with the media.
Participating assets from the Philippines included BRP Miguel Malvar (FFG06), AW159 anti-submarine helicopter, PAF C-208 ISR aircraft, and Search and Rescue units, the AFP stated.
Meanwhile, Japan deployed the JS Takanami (DD110) and an SH-60K Seahawk helicopter, demonstrating joint capability in a wide array of naval operations, AFP added.
The Armed Forces also mentioned that the MCA featured key exercise serials such as communication check exercise, anti-submarine warfare exercise, cross-deck exercise, Division Tactics and Officer of the Watch Maneuvers (DIVTACS/OOW), Photo Exercises (PHOTOEX), and a Finish Exercise (FINEX), showcasing seamless interoperability between the two forces.
“This cooperative activity is more than a display of maritime capability—it is a manifestation of our enduring commitment to uphold peace, stability, and a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific. With the RAA now in effect, our coordination with Japan will only grow stronger and more responsive to the complex demands of our shared security environment,” AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo S. Brawner Jr. said.
Meanwhile, Japan also reaffirmed its steadfast partnership with the Philippines as both nations work closely to uphold lasting peace, prosperity, and security across the region, the Embassy of Japan emphasized.
