Japan PM to push security and economic ties on Philippines visit

29/4/2025 19:29

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba was set to meet President Ferdinand Marcos Jr on Tuesday during a two-day visit to the Philippines, as two of Washington's closest Asian allies seek to boost security and economic ties amid rising Indo-Pacific tensions.



The visit comes at a crucial time, with both countries confronting growing concerns over China's assertiveness in the South China Sea and broader regional security, while also navigating global trade tensions sparked by sweeping U.S. tariffs.



Ishiba arrived at the presidential palace in Manila late afternoon ahead of the meeting and was greeted by an honour guard and a member of the Marcos' cabinet.