Japan and Philippines Enhance Security Cooperation During Balikatan Exercise on 5 May 2026

Key facts

• Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi visited Manila on 5 May 2026 to meet President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and discuss the potential transfer of used Japanese destroyers.
• The Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) signed in 2024 allows Japan to deploy 1,400 military personnel as regular participants in the annual Balikatan (shoulder-to-shoulder) exercises.
• Japan is evaluating the transfer of up to six Abukuma-class destroyers to the Philippines to enhance maritime patrol capabilities after scrapping its ban on lethal weapons exports on 21 April.
• During the exercise in Paoay, Japanese forces will utilise Type 88 missiles in a mock attack on a decommissioned warship alongside units from the United States (US) and Canada.
• Representatives from 16 countries, including India and Australia, are expected to witness the live-fire maneuvers involving Philippine, US, Japanese, and Canadian firepower.