Senator Loren Legarda
MANILA, Philippines – Senator Loren Legarda supported the Senate’s concurrence to the ratification of the Philippines-Japan Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA), highlighting its role in strengthening national security and regional stability.
“The RAA not only facilitates joint military training, disaster response, and humanitarian operations but also fortifies our commitment to regional peace and stability, which we emphasized during the 31st Asia Pacific Parliamentary Forum (APPF) we hosted last year,” explained Legarda as she cast an affirmative vote fo Senate Resolution No. 1248 concurring the ratification of the RAA.
“This legal framework before us today is a reinforcement of our commitment to enhance confidence-building measures that effectively alleviate tensions, proactively prevent disputes, and mitigate escalation of ongoing disputes in the Asia-Pacific region,” she added.
The RAA facilitates reciprocal access and cooperation between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Self-Defense Forces of Japan.
It outlines the provisions on entry and departure, movement, access to facilities, and professional practice of the Visiting Force and Civilian Component for cooperative activities, as well as the rules governing the jurisdiction over the actions of the Visiting Force and Civilian Component.
“Most importantly, this Agreement solidifies the enduring friendship and mutual respect between the Philippines and Japan,” Legarda said.
“Having sponsored a similar agreement in the past, the Status of Visiting Forces Agreement with Australia, I have seen firsthand how these strategic partnerships enhance our defense capabilities, ensure better preparedness, and bolster our national sovereignty,” she added.
“My vote is a vote for a stronger Philippines, a safer region, and a future built on collaboration with like-minded nations.”