Senators manifested their support towards the signing of the Reciprocal Access Agreement between the Philippines and Japan, on Monday, July 8.
Former Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri, one of the advocates for the RAA, mentioned that the RAA will strengthen the defense interoperability with the neighboring country. He said that this kind of agreement will build up trainings for the Philippine Navy.
The RAA is also supported by the new Senate President Francis Escudero stating that any agreement aimed at preventing armed conflict in Asia must be fully supported.
Sen. Grace Poe highlighted the importance of coming to terms with the neighboring countries with the same interest.
The Chairperson of Senate Committee on Foreign Relations Sen. Imee Marcos expressed support as well for the RAA. However, the committee will still have to discuss the agreement in full detail.
On the contrary, Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III mentioned that economic agreements must be a priority instead of military agreements. He believes that this will pave the way on the promotion of our products.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. witnessed the signing of the RAA after the joint courtesy call with Japanese Foreign Minister Kamikawa Yoko and Defense Minister Kihara Minoru in the palace on Monday.
