Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Mari Yamaguchi

Japan and Philippines move to bolster military ties as China’s rise causes shared anxiety

Philippine president Ferdinand Marcos Jr and Japanese emperor Naruhito toast during the state banquet at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo on 27 May 2026 - (AFP/Getty)

Visiting Philippine president Ferdinand Marcos Jr is receiving an “exceptional level of hospitality” as Japan seeks to upgrade ties with a nation that it sees as a crucial defence partner and potential arms customer.

The deepening relationship is largely underpinned by shared anxieties about China’s rise and military activities in Asia.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.