The Stratbase Group and the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines convened a high-level private conference entitled “Strengthening Strategic Ties: 70 Years of Japan–Philippines Normalization of Diplomatic Relations,” at the Peninsula Manila, Makati City. The conference gathered leading experts and stakeholders in Philippine-Japan relations to discuss the strategic importance, past achievements, current realities, and prospects of the Philippine-Japan relations, with a particular focus on reaffirming the significance of the rule of law and the realization of the Free and Open Indo-Pacific vision.  

In his remarks, Stratbase Institute President, Prof. Victor Andres “Dindo” Manhit, emphasized that beyond a shared history, the Philippines and Japan are two nations that have the opportunity and responsibility to work together to strengthen economic resilience, enhance security cooperation, and uphold the principles that keep the region stable and open.  

While in his keynote message, Department of Finance Secretary Frederick Go underscored that economic and technological cooperation with Japan remains central to the Philippines’ growth. He highlighted Japan’s role as the country’s largest source of Official Development Assistance and a key partner in driving investments, infrastructure development, and workforce advancement.  

Meanwhile, Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines H.E. Endo Kazuya highlighted that bilateral cooperation is now at its “new height,” expanding across defense, economic development, infrastructure, people‑to‑people ties, and multilateral engagement, with Japan as a key security and development partner.  

Stratbase commends the governments of the Philippines and Japan on this significant milestone. Stratbase remains committed to fostering discussions and partnerships between like-minded nations that keep the Indo-Pacific free, open, and rules-based.