Philippines, Japan Strengthen Strategic Communication to Counter China’s Regional Narrative

The Philippines and Japan have reaffirmed their commitment to counter false narratives and propaganda from China in the East China Sea and South China Sea, emphasizing strategic communication as a key tool for defending international law and regional stability.

During a meeting in Manila on March 19, Philippine Secretary of National Defense Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. and Admiral Saito Akira, Chief of Staff of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF), discussed bilateral defense cooperation and maritime security. The meeting followed February’s defense ministerial talks between Teodoro and Japan’s Defense Minister Nakatani Gen.

Both sides agreed to deepen engagements through high-level exchanges, equipment transfers, and joint military exercises once the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) takes effect. Teodoro reiterated the Philippines’ support for Japan’s defense industry and the potential for co-production efforts to enhance Philippine defense capabilities.

The meeting took place amid rising tensions in the South China Sea. The Philippines recently conducted a resupply mission to the grounded warship BRP Sierra Madre at Ren'ai Jiao, with China claiming it allowed the operation. The China Coast Guard monitored the mission and reiterated its maritime rights enforcement. Chinese state media also accused the Philippine Navy of polluting waters around Second Thomas Shoal, a claim dismissed by Philippine officials as misleading.

Meanwhile, Chinese social media users have asserted that the Philippine province of Palawan historically belongs to China, prompting a rejection from the Philippines’ national security adviser. Recent aerial encounters and maritime confrontations, including water cannon attacks on Philippine vessels, have further strained relations.

Separately, Japan is set to deploy long-range missiles on its southern island of Kyushu, with a range of about 1,000 km, allowing them to reach China’s coastal regions. The move, expected next year, is part of Japan’s efforts to enhance counterstrike capabilities.

Japan and China continue to dispute the Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea. The islands, claimed by both nations, have been a flashpoint since Japan’s 2012 purchase from a private owner, which Beijing opposed.

Tensions remain high, with frequent Chinese patrols. In 2024, Chinese government vessels entered the contiguous zone around the islands on 355 days, with a record 1,351 patrols. The China Coast Guard has expanded its fleet, maintaining a constant presence, including during storms.

Chinese ships entered Japanese territorial waters 42 times last year. China also placed an oceanographic buoy near the islands, prompting Japanese protests. The dispute continues as both sides assert control over the region.