The Philippines-Japan Vice Ministerial Strategic Dialogue (VMSD) was convened in Manila, underscoring the continued commitment of both nations to deepen their long-standing partnership. The meeting was co-chaired by Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Undersecretary for Policy Ma. Hellen B. De La Vega and Japan’s Senior Deputy Minister NAMAZU Hiroyuki of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
During her remarks, Undersecretary De La Vega emphasized that the dialogue builds on the momentum of recent high-level exchanges between Manila and Tokyo under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. According to her, this effort aims to further sustain the Strengthened Strategic Partnership between the two countries.
Advancing Security, Maritime Cooperation, and Economic Growth
Both officials reviewed the progress of bilateral cooperation in critical areas such as security and defense, maritime collaboration, and economic security. Moreover, they discussed ongoing initiatives as well as future projects that will drive the partnership forward.
Looking ahead, Undersecretary De La Vega expressed confidence that the coming year will bring significant achievements. Notably, 2026 will mark the 70th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Japan, which serves as a milestone in their shared history.
Strengthening Economic Ties
In addition, both sides recognized the successful outcome of the Philippines-Japan High-Level Joint Committee Meeting on Infrastructure Development and Economic Cooperation held on 11 September 2025 in Japan. This meeting further solidified economic collaboration, with both parties reaffirming the importance of the Philippines-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (PJEPA) in driving trade and investment opportunities.
Regional and International Cooperation
Furthermore, the dialogue extended to discussions on regional and global issues, emphasizing the importance of peace, stability, and a rules-based international order. In particular, they highlighted the role of international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Award.
Both leaders also reaffirmed the significance of Philippines-Japan-United States Trilateral Cooperation, stressing its complementary role in fostering not only peace and stability but also economic resilience and sustainable growth. Equally important, they reiterated support for ASEAN Centrality, with Japan expressing strong backing for the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairship in 2026.
Commitment to Peace and Sustainable Development
Concluding the dialogue, Undersecretary De La Vega reaffirmed that the Philippines and Japan will continue to shape their strategic partnership into a cornerstone of regional peace, stability, and inclusive growth.
