RAA with Japan good for Phl - Teodoro

Defense and foreign affairs officials have made another pitch at the Senate for the reciprocal access agreement (RAA) with Japan, which appears headed for early ratification by the chamber, with several senators voicing strong support for the pact.

- CECILLE SUERTE FELIPE

At the hearing yesterday on RAA by the Senate committee on foreign relations chaired by Sen. Imee Marcos, Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro pressed for the ratification of the agreement that he said is designed to enhance interoperability and exchange of technology with the Japan Self-Defense Forces.

"It is necessary to enter into an agreement with Japan," Teodoro said, calling the agreement part and parcel of the country's strategic partnership with Japan.

The RAA was signed on July 8, 2024 in Manila, transmitted to the Senate last Nov. 11 and referred to the committee the following day. The RAA allows joint military exercises between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the JSDF.

Teodoro also pointed out that Japan is a strong supporter of the Philippines' domain awareness capabilities, with its donation of radars and other equipment to the country.