The Philippines and Japan have signed a defense pact that makes it possible for the countries to place defense personnel on each other's territories for training and other operations. The idea is that the agreement will strengthen the bonds between the countries.
The agreement on the defense pact RAA was signed on Monday in Manila at a ceremony where, among others, Japan's Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa and the Philippines' Defense Minister Gilberto Teodoro participated.
The Philippines and Japan have long been allies with the USA, which has strengthened its ties to many countries in the region to counter China's military power and influence in the region.
Japan has also entered into similar agreements with Australia and the United Kingdom in recent years.
