Marcos in Japan: Security, energy, trade, and peace in a chaotic world

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. arrived in Japan for a four-day state visit, marking the third time he has met with Japanese leadership since taking office. The visit underscores the growing strategic partnership between the two nations, focusing on security, energy resilience, and economic cooperation amid global instability, including oil price shocks that have strained the Philippine economy. Marcos and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos will meet with Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako, where ceremonial honors will be exchanged. Marcos will receive the Grand Cordon of the Supreme Order of the Chrysanthemum, while the First Lady gets the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Precious Crown. In return, Marcos will bestow the Order of Lakandula (Supremo) on the Emperor and the Order of Gabriela Silang on the Empress—both the highest civilian honors the Philippines can grant. The visit includes high-level talks with Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae, where the two leaders will discuss strengthening bilateral coordination. Marcos is expected to address the Japanese Diet, a rare occurrence for a foreign leader, and engage with Japanese businesses to explore trade and investment opportunities. Key outcomes may include the start of negotiations for a General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA), similar to the one Manila holds with the United States, and plans for Japan to assist in building energy storage facilities in the Philippines to improve resilience against oil supply disruptions. Japan remains a critical partner for the Philippines, providing most of its Official Development Assistance. The two countries collaborate in areas such as agriculture, energy, maritime security, infrastructure, defense, and space technology. The visit aims to deepen ties in these sectors, particularly in Mindanao’s development, while addressing shared challenges like climate change and regional security concerns. Marcos emphasized the importance of the visit in a statement, calling it essential for navigating a ‘challenging and evolving global environment.’ He highlighted Japan as a ‘like-minded’ and ‘reliable partner’ during both prosperity and crises, such as the ongoing oil crisis affecting global markets. The visit follows earlier meetings between Marcos and Sanae, signaling a commitment to expanding cooperation in trade, security, and economic stability.