The document stipulates that during joint exercises, ammunition, fuel, and other necessary goods will not be taxed. This agreement was signed against the backdrop of rising tensions between Tokyo and Beijing, especially following comments by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takichi that China's actions regarding Taiwan could lead to Japan's intervention.
Additionally, Japan and the Philippines are facing their own territorial disputes with China in the East China Sea and the South China Sea, which continue to deepen and could involve the United States in conflict.
According to officials from Japan and the Philippines, this agreement is also intended to assist in responding to natural disasters and participating in peacekeeping operations under the auspices of the UN.
Euronews notes that under President Ferdinand Marcos, who took office in 2022, Philippine and Chinese ships have increasingly become involved in conflicts in the South China Sea. In contrast, under former President Rodrigo Duterte, Manila maintained closer ties with Beijing and Moscow.
China claims almost the entire waterway in the South China Sea, strengthening its military presence and creating artificial island bases. Territorial disputes in this region also involve countries such as Malaysia, Vietnam, Brunei, and Taiwan.
