PHILIPPINES, US, JAPAN REAFFIRM STANCE VS MARITIME AGGRESSION

The foreign ministers of the Philippines, Japan, and the United States reaffirmed their opposition to unilateral actions that seek to alter the maritime status quo through force or coercion, particularly in the East and South China Seas.

During a trilateral meeting on the sidelines of the ASEAN ministerial summit in Kuala Lumpur, they emphasized respect for international law, freedom of navigation, and regional stability.

Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Theresa Lazaro thanked the US and Japan for their continued support in defending the country’s position in the South China Sea and strengthening its security and defense capabilities.

The three nations also discussed advancing the Luzon Economic Corridor, deepening cybersecurity cooperation, and strengthening supply chains for key minerals.

They agreed to convene a high-level maritime meeting by autumn and continue collaboration in areas like civil nuclear energy and digital infrastructure.

Source: PhilNews24 | July 12, 2025