Philippine President Meets Japanese PM on Thursday

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is scheduled to meet Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Thursday (28 May) during a state visit, according to Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday. The meeting coincides with the 70th anniversary of Japan-Philippines bilateral relations. According to the statement, President Marcos’s visit comes as Japan seeks to deepen ties with the Philippines as a strategic partner in advancing the vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. Sources indicate Japan and the Philippines aim to upgrade their relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership amid the complex regional security environment, including China’s increasing assertiveness. On Thursday (28 May), President Marcos will address Japan’s parliament, becoming the first state guest since Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva’s similar visit in March 2025.