Japan & Maria Theresa Lazaro

Japan: Japan is the other primary party, deepening its security cooperation with the Philippines and expanding its role in Indo-Pacific security. The agreement includes Official Security Assistance for Philippine defense infrastructure.

Maria Theresa Lazaro: As Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary, she signed the ACSA and exchanged diplomatic notes, playing a key diplomatic role.

Japan: Participated in Quad, voiced opposition to changing status quo by force, discussed Hormuz with U.S.

Maria Theresa Lazaro: Philippine Foreign Secretary and ASEAN chair, opened the meetings, called for unity and collective action.

Japan: Quad member; Rubio-Motegi meeting discussed Middle East de-escalation, but no direct trade deal impact.

Maria Theresa Lazaro: Met Jaishankar; discussed strengthening India-Philippines strategic partnership.

Maria Theresa Lazaro: Maria Theresa Lazaro, the Philippine Foreign Minister, stated that Manila will seek discussions with Chinese authorities about the sanctions, preferring diplomacy over sanctions.