Japan's Prime Minister Strengthens Defense Alliances with Philippines Amid Maritime Tensions

Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida visited a Philippine patrol ship to show support and strengthen defense ties amid maritime tensions with China. Japan has provided patrol ships to the Philippines, which uses them for sovereignty patrols in the South China Sea. Kishida and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. discussed a defense pact and announced the provision of coastal surveillance radars to the Philippine navy. Kishida also pledged continued support to bolster the capability of the Philippine military and maritime agencies.